How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms as well as your background with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A significant event like the birth of a child or a relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in addressing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to receive a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting to be called, and paying attention at school or other situations. These issues can greatly affect their functioning at home, work or at school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for a minimum of 6 months and must be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or developmental level. Additionally, they should be causing significant distress and difficulties at school, home, at work, as well as in relationships.
A qualified health care professional must conduct a medical evaluation to determine the presence of ADHD. This could include a physical examination, and checking for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like thyroid disease or depression. The health care provider will also review the family history of the patient and review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. Additionally, he will talk to the patient about the symptoms they are experiencing. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the person's current symptoms and past behavior, looking at the ways they affect their family, social and professional life. If possible, he will look at the person's past behavior as well as school experiences, too.
When evaluating adults, the provider will consider whether they suffer from an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring and will inquire whether the patient has a family history of ADHD. People who have family members who have the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone is suffering from ADHD, he or she will provide the patient with a complete clinical evaluation which includes reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a diary of their symptoms for several weeks. They will also ask about any other issues that the person may have, and will use the DSM-5 symptom guide to see if they have any of the criteria for ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can perform screening and diagnose the disorder. adhd diagnosis in adult , nurse practitioner psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all able to diagnose ADHD. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents and might refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
A thorough medical exam that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A specialist may also suggest the use of a brain scanner, also known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a safe, noninvasive method of screening people for ADHD.
In an interview with the individual an examiner reviews the patient's medical and mental history going back to childhood, and also his current symptoms and strategies for coping. The doctor checks to see if the person meets the diagnostic criteria for either inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined ADHD presentations as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
The doctor will ask teachers and other staff members who spend a great deal of time with children to fill out questionnaires or checklists. The doctor may also ask parents to complete such forms. Adults are often asked to speak to their spouses, co-workers and other close friends. They may also want to interview someone who has known the person since childhood.
During the diagnostic process, the mental health professional looks for signs that indicate whether the person is experiencing predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. The doctor will also determine how long the symptoms have been present and whether they are causing impairment at home, school or at work, or in other aspects of life.
The mental health professional should also check for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They should also look for any physical causes of the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep issues. A thorough screening will also look at the person's psychological, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid them by encouraging school staff to monitor the child's progress, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques, such as meditation or yoga. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can enhance the ability of a lot of children suffering from ADHD to concentrate and focus. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, which can make their symptoms worse. They should also make sure they get enough rest.
The signs of ADHD are present throughout adolescence and into adulthood. For adults, they can manifest in the form of difficulties at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if a person has ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation typically includes an examination of the mental health history, a physical exam and interviews with the person as well as his or her parents, spouse or partner and other people who know the person well. The provider may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she can also use rating scales and other tests to confirm that the person is in compliance with standard criteria for ADHD. The person may also inquire about any medical conditions that could be similar to ADHD symptoms, for example seizures and thyroid disorders.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication will usually be prescribed to control the symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. drugs used to treat ADHD in children and adults. These drugs are likely to cause adverse effects, so a person should only take them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications he or is taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages before finding one that is suitable for them.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some instances the reduction of exposure to triggers in the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, sleeping habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can help you in finding ways to manage triggers and refer you to a dietitian to get nutritional advice or for additional assistance.
Children can also be helped by maintaining their routines, limiting caffeine and sugar, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Beware of dietary supplements that do not have a scientific basis or could be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should seek out an expert in mental health like psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct a physical examination and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and apply standard ratings scales. They will also consider the severity and frequency of core ADHD symptoms, and if they result in significant impairments in the life of a person.
Often, a therapist will collaborate with the patient and family to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other organizational strategies and educate the patient in metacognitive techniques, which involve identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions of limited choices. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can help by providing a stable, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, promoting an appropriate sleep hygiene and avoiding stimulants. They should also encourage their child to socialize, and make an effort to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.
School staff can provide valuable information about behavior and learning problems in the student However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. These decisions are made by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with the support of each other.