How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any history of ADHD. He will also review your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A major event such as the birth of a child or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the issue. Finding a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting for a call and focusing at school or in other settings. These issues can seriously affect their functioning at home, work, or school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity have to be present for at minimum six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or development level. Additionally, they must be causing significant pain and issues at home, school or work, and also in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a qualified health care professional. This may include a physical exam, and a look at other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like thyroid or depression. The health professional will also examine the person's family history as well as review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. For children, the questions are usually targeted towards their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The doctor will look at the person's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it affects their professional, social and family life. If it is possible, the therapist will also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When looking at adults, the physician will consider whether or not they have an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring, and will ask if the person has an ancestral history of ADHD. People with family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to have it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone has ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct an entire clinical examination. This will include analyzing the person's current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily log of their symptoms over a period of a few weeks. He or she may also ask the person about any other issues they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can perform screening and make a diagnosis of the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists and physician assistants, nurse practitioners, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive evaluation.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam that includes an examination of vision and hearing. A doctor may also recommend a brain scanner known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive and safe method.
In an interview with the individual the examiner will review the individual's medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, in addition to his 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 children and teens being screened for ADHD, the doctor may ask teachers and other people who spend long periods of time with the child to fill out questionnaires or checklists. They might also ask parents to complete these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, coworkers, and other close friends. They might also want to interview someone who has been with 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 the length of time the symptoms have been present and if they are causing impairment at home, school, work or in other aspects of daily life.
The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. He or she should also look for any physical causes for the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep problems. A thorough examination will also look at the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging the school staff to monitor their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques like meditation or yoga. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular physical exercise and a healthy diet which can enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks that can worsen their symptoms. They should also make sure they get enough sleep.
Symptoms of ADHD are present throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties in their work or relationships. A health care provider will conduct an assessment to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and how severe it is. The evaluation consists of a mental history as well as a physical exam and interviews with the person, his or parents or spouses, and other people who are familiar with the person. The healthcare provider might request the patient to list their symptoms and how they affect them. He or she might also employ rating scales or other tests to verify that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. He or she may inquire about medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms, for example thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication will usually be prescribed to treat the symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children and adults. These medications can trigger adverse effects. It is recommended that you use these drugs under the supervision of a doctor and with a prescription. Inform your doctor about the medications you take. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants, causing dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD need to try a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before finding one that works for him or her.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some instances it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers from the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to diet, sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. why not look here can guide you on how to control triggers, and can suggest an dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be helped by following the same routines as well as limiting sugar and caffeine and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without scientific evidence or that could interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should consult an expert in mental health for diagnosis, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist to establish a diagnosis. The doctor will take a detailed history, conduct a physical exam and review medical records to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, look at the patient's behavior in various environments and apply the standard rating scales. He or she will consider the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms, as as whether they have a significant impact on the person's daily life.
Most often, therapists will work with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other strategies for organization and educate the patient in metacognitive techniques that focus on identifying and modifying "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of alternatives. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can help by providing a secure and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting a good sleep hygiene, and refraining from stimulants. They must also encourage their child to interact with others, and try to develop a healthy relationship with their spouse.
School staff can provide valuable information on the learning and behavior of the student, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. The student's parents and healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.