How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. A significant event like pregnancy or a relationship problems can prompt awareness of the issue. Finding a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with sitting still, waiting for their turn, and paying attention at schools or in other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues in a way that affects their functioning at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity have to be present for at least six months, and be more prominent than is normal for their age or developmental stage. In addition, they must be causing significant suffering and issues at home, school or at work, as well as in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a certified health professional. This may include a physical exam and a look at other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. The health professional may also review the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents are also able to be interviewed.
The doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults that are described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will analyze the person's past and current behavior and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If get diagnosed with adhd is possible the therapist will review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will be able to determine whether they have a co-occurring mental health condition and will inquire if the person has an ancestral history of ADHD. People with family members with the disorder are more prone to develop it.
If a health care provider suspects someone may have ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct a full clinical evaluation. This includes reviewing the person's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily log of their symptoms over a period of several weeks. They can also inquire about any other issues they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all able to recognize ADHD. Some family doctors diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They might recommend adults to undergo a thorough assessment.
A thorough medical exam which includes a thorough assessment of hearing and sight, is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A specialist might also suggest a brain scanner known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the relative intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history, including his medical and psychiatric background that goes back to childhood. The doctor will also discuss the individual's current symptoms as well as 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).
For children and teens who are being assessed for ADHD the doctor may request teachers and other individuals who spend a lot of time with the child to fill out checklists or questionnaires. He or she might request parents to fill out these forms. For adults, he or she will usually talk to spouses and other close friends as well as colleagues, and may want to interview relatives who know the person from their 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 if they are causing impairment at home, school or at work, or in other areas of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she must also search for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also look at the person's social, emotional 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 observe the child's progress, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach relaxation and calming methods like yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can enhance the ability of many children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, as they can worsen their symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
The signs of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. For adults, they can manifest in the form of difficulties at work or in relationships. A health care provider will conduct an assessment to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation usually includes an examination of the mental health history, a physical exam and interviews with the individual and their parents, spouse or life partner and others who know the person well. The doctor may request the patient to list their symptoms and how they affect them. They can also use rating scales or other tests to confirm if the person meets standard criteria for ADHD. adhd diagnosis in adults will also take a history of any medical problems which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication will usually be prescribed to control the symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children as well as adults. These drugs can cause negative side effects. It is recommended that you take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with the prescription of a doctor. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications are taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous adverse effects. Many individuals with ADHD must try several different types and dosages before they find one that is suitable for him or her.
The following is a list with preventions.
In some instances it is possible to reduce exposure to environmental triggers can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. This could include diet, routines for sleeping family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can help you find ways to manage these triggers and can refer you for further assistance or a dietitian to suggest changes in your diet.
Consult your GP for more information. Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no research-based backing or that might interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect ADHD should visit a mental health professional like a psychologist or psychiatrist, to establish a diagnosis. The doctor will conduct a thorough medical history, perform physical examination and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the person's behavior, and utilize standard ratings scales. He or she will also examine the presence and duration of core ADHD symptoms, and whether they result in significant impairments in a person's life.
Usually, a therapist will collaborate with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other organizational strategies, and train the patient on metacognitive techniques that focus on identifying and modifying "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions of limited alternatives. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can help by offering a safe, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, encouraging a good sleep hygiene, and avoiding stimulants. They should also encourage their children to interact with others, and try to develop a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
The staff at the school may offer valuable information regarding issues with learning and behavior in children however, they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. Parents and the student's health care provider have to make these decisions with the help of the teacher.