How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A significant event, like pregnancy or a breakup is a trigger for awareness of the problem. Getting a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with being still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools or in other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues to the extent that hinders their performance at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity should be present for at least 6 months and must be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or developmental level. They must also be causing significant issues at work, school or at home, as well as in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a qualified health care professional. This may include a physical exam and a look at other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. The health care professional will also look over the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. He will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are typically targeted towards their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed too.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD for children and adults, which are outlined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will look at the person's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it affects their professional, social and family life. If possible the therapist may also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, the provider will take into account whether or not they suffer from an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring, and will ask whether the person has any family history of ADHD. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD, they will perform an entire clinical examination. This involves examining the person's current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily log of their symptoms over a time of a few weeks. He or she may also inquire about any other conditions they suffer from, and refer them to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or are interested in ADHD can perform screening and make a diagnosis of the disorder. adhd diagnoses , nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all able to diagnose ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents, and might 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 specialist might suggest an examination of the brain, called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the relative concentration of the beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scan can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive, safe manner.
The doctor will go over the person's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical history that dates back to childhood. He 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).
The doctor will request teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. They might also ask parents to complete these forms. For adults, they will often speak to spouses and close friends as well as colleagues and may also interview a family member who knows 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 for how long the symptoms have been present and whether they cause impairment at home, school and at work, or in other areas of life.
The mental health professional should also check for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They must also determine any physical causes for the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep disorders. In addition an extensive screening will also check the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. Families can support this by encouraging school staff to monitor their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques, such as yoga or meditation. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular exercise and a balanced diet, which will improve their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods high in sugar can cause more symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout the adolescent years, and into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties at work or with relationships. A health care provider will conduct an assessment to determine if someone has ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation includes a mental history as well as a physical exam and interviews with the person as well as his or her parents or spouses, and other people who are familiar with him or her. The healthcare provider might request an inventory of the person's symptoms and how they affect him or her. The doctor could also use rating scales or other tests to determine if the person is in compliance with the standardized criteria for ADHD. They will also conduct a medical note of any medical conditions that 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 treat the symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children and adults. These drugs are likely to cause side negative effects, therefore one should only take them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking. Certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD need to test different types and doses of medication before they find one that works.
Prevention
In some instances, reducing the exposure to triggers from the environment can aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. This could include the way you eat, your sleep habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can help you in identifying ways to control triggers and refer you to a dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Consult your GP for more information. Try to avoid supplements for your diet that do not have a scientific backing or interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they be suffering from ADHD should see an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get a diagnosis. The doctor will take a detailed history, do an examination of the body and review medical records to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the person's behavior and apply standard ratings scales. He or she will also look at the presence and duration of core ADHD symptoms, and whether they cause significant impairment in the life of a person.
Usually, a therapist will collaborate with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills to teach time management and other organizational strategies and instruct the patient on metacognitive techniques that involve identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods and perceptions of a lack of options. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can assist by offering a safe and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting a good sleep hygiene, and avoiding stimulants. Parents should also encourage their child to socialize, and try to build a healthy bond with their spouse.
Staff at the school can offer valuable information regarding issues with learning and behavior in children however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. The student's parents and healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.