How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms and your previous experiences with ADHD. He will also review your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. A significant event, like pregnancy or a breakup can trigger awareness of the issue. Finding a diagnosis is the first step towards managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulties with waiting for a call, and paying attention at school or other environments. These problems can significantly affect their functioning at home, work or at school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should be present for at least six months and be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or developmental level. Additionally, they must be causing significant suffering and difficulties at school, home, at work, as well as in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a trained health care provider. This may include a thorough physical exam and a review of other conditions that could cause similar symptoms like thyroid disease or depression. The health care professional will also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. In addition, he will interview the person about their symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents may be interviewed.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will examine the patient's behavior in the past and present and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If it is possible, he or will look at the person's past behavior as well as school experiences too.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will look into whether they have a mental health issue that co-occurs, and if there is a history of ADHD in the family. People who have family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects that someone has ADHD the doctor will give the person an exhaustive clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily diary of their symptoms for some 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 has any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness can test and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and might refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam that includes an evaluation of vision and hearing. Additionally, a doctor might suggest a brain scan known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid, or NEBA to measure the concentration of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a safe, noninvasive method of screening people for ADHD.
The examiner will review the person's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical history that dates to his childhood. The examiner will also review the person's present symptoms and ways of coping. diagnosis adhd 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 ask teachers and other people who spend a lot of time with the child to fill out questionnaires or checklists. He or she might also ask parents to fill in the forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, colleagues and other close family members. They might 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 cause difficulties at home, school or at work, or in other areas of daily life.
The mental health professional must also be able to detect other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. They should also look for any physical causes of the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep problems. Additionally, a thorough screening will also look at the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging the school staff to observe their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also help teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming, such as yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can enhance the ability of many children with ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can make their symptoms worse. They should also ensure they get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty in their work or relationships. A doctor will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone has ADHD and the severity of it. This usually involves a mental health history, a physical exam and interviews with the person and their parents, spouse or life partner and other family members 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 determine that the person is in compliance with typical criteria for ADHD. They will also take a history of any medical issues that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD like thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed with ADHD the medication is usually prescribed to control the symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children and adults. These medications can cause side effects. It is recommended that you use these drugs under the supervision of a doctor and with the prescription of a doctor. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or are 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 they find one that is suitable for them.
The following is a list of preventions.
In certain cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers in the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include diet and sleep habits, family structure and medication. A GP can assist you in finding ways to manage these triggers, and then refer you for additional assistance or to a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no scientific backing or that may interfere with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may be suffering from ADHD should see a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, look at the patient's behavior in various environments and apply standard rating scales. He or she will consider the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms, as well in determining whether they have an impact on a person's everyday life.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient and their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities, which involves identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of limited choices. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can assist by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting a good sleep hygiene, and refraining from stimulants. They should also encourage their children to interact with others, and work to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.
The staff at the school may provide valuable information on behavior and learning issues in a child however, they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions are taken by the child's parents, health provider, and teacher with the assistance of the other.