How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and your history with ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. An event that is significant, such as the birth of a child or a relationship problems can prompt awareness of the problem. Finding a diagnosis is the first step towards managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulties with waiting for a call, and paying attention at school or in other settings. These problems can significantly impact their performance at work, home or at school. The symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental level. They should be causing major problems at school, at work or at home, as well as in relationships.
A trained health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. This may include a physical examination, and a look at other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. The health care professional will also review the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children, the questions are usually specific to their age and parents may be interviewed too.
The physician will follow the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults and children as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will look at the person's past and current behavior and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If possible, the therapist will also review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When looking at adults, the physician will consider whether or not they have a co-occurring mental health issue, and will ask if the person has any family history of ADHD. People who have family members with the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a doctor suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD the doctor will conduct an entire clinical examination. This includes reviewing the patient's symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily log of their symptoms over a period of a few weeks. He or she will also inquire about any other conditions the patient has, and will use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine whether they meet the criteria for ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness can test and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists and nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Family physicians may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough assessment.
A thorough medical exam, including an assessment of sight and hearing is the first step towards diagnosing ADHD. A specialist may suggest the brain scan, also called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the amount of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scanning can be used to screen for ADHD in a non-invasive, secure method.
In an interview with the individual, the examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, as well as the present symptoms and coping strategies. 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 teens and children being screened for ADHD, the doctor may have teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with the child to fill out questionnaires or checklists. The doctor may also ask parents to complete these forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, colleagues and other close family members. 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. They will also determine how long symptoms have been present and whether they cause problems at home, at the workplace, at school or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. They should also search for physical causes for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. A thorough examination will also examine the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can help them by encouraging the school staff to observe the child closely, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. adhd diagnosed can also instruct relaxation techniques and methods for calming like yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can improve the ability of many children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can worsen symptoms. Also, they should ensure they get enough sleep.
The signs of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty in their work or relationships. A health care provider will perform an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and how severe it is. This evaluation usually includes an assessment of mental health along with a physical exam, and interviews with the person, his or her parents, a spouse or life partner and others who know him or her well. The provider may ask for a list of the individual's symptoms and how they impact him or her. The doctor could also use rating scales and other tests to confirm that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. The person may inquire about medical conditions that can be similar to ADHD symptoms, for example thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed with ADHD the medication will usually be prescribed to manage the symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. drugs used to treat ADHD in adults and children. These medications can trigger negative side effects. One should only take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. Certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD must try various types and dosages of medication before they find one that works.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In certain cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to diet, routines for sleeping and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can help you in finding ways to control triggers, and can suggest a dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be helped by keeping their routines the same, limiting caffeine and sugar and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Avoid taking supplements that do not have research-based backing or that might interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should visit an expert in mental health like a psychologist or psychiatrist, to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct physical examinations and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe the person's behavior, and utilize standard ratings scales. He or she will consider the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms, as well in determining whether they have a significant impact on a person's daily life.
Therapists may work with a patient and their family to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive skills, which involves the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of having fewer choices. Psychologists may prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can also assist by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoiding stimulants. They should also encourage their children to interact with others, and try to establish a healthy relationship with their spouse.
School staff can provide valuable information about the behavior and learning issues of students however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. adhd diagnosed and health care provider must make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.