20 Things That Only The Most Devoted ADHD Diagnoses Fans Know
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms and history with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A significant event, like pregnancy or a crisis in a relationship is a trigger for awareness of the issue. Recognizing the issue is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
While many children struggle with being still, waiting for their turn and paying attention in school or in other settings, kids who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues in a way that impairs functioning at home, school or work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months and be more prominent than is normal for their age or developmental stage. They should also be causing significant problems at school, work or at home, as well as in relationships.
Being diagnosed with ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a qualified health professional. This may include a physical exam and also examining for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like thyroid or depression. The health professional may also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. Additionally, he will ask the patient questions about his or her symptoms. For children, the questions are usually targeted towards their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed too.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are outlined in DSM-5 the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The doctor will look at the person's behavior in the past and present and how it impacts their professional, social 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 condition that is co-occurring, as well as the presence of ADHD in the family. People with family members who have the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone has ADHD the doctor will conduct an entire clinical examination. This will include analyzing the person's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a journal every day of their symptoms over a period of a few weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other medical conditions that the person may have and will refer to the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine whether they meet the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and make a diagnosis of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner and psychiatrists are all certified to recognize ADHD. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive evaluation.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an extensive medical examination which includes a thorough assessment of hearing and vision. In addition, a specialist may suggest the brain scan, also called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid, or NEBA, to measure the concentration of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a non-invasive, safe method of screening people for ADHD.
The examiner will review the patient'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 coping mechanisms. 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 may ask teachers and other staff members who spend a lot of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. The doctor may also ask parents to complete these forms. For adults, they will usually discuss marriage with spouses and other close friends, as well as colleagues, and may want to interview a family member who knows the person from 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 the symptoms have been present and whether they are causing problems at school, home or at work, or in other areas of daily life.
The mental health professional should also be able to detect other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. He or she must also search for physical causes, like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. In addition an extensive screening will also examine the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging the school staff to observe the child with a keen eye, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and techniques for calming like yoga or meditation. Many children suffering from ADHD can benefit from regular exercise and a balanced diet, which can help increase their ability to concentrate and focus. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, as they can worsen their symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can last through adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties in their work or relationships. A doctor will perform an evaluation to determine if someone has ADHD and how severe it is. The evaluation typically includes an examination of the mental health history as well as a physical examination and interviews with the person, his or her parents, spouse or a life partner, and other family members who know the person well. The healthcare provider might request a list of the individual's symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor might also employ rating scales or other tests to determine if the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms, for example seizures and thyroid disorders.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD A medication is typically prescribed to control the symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children and adults. They are able to cause side negative effects, therefore one should only take them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or is taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages before settling on one that is suitable for him or her.
Prevention
In some instances it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers in the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include sleep and diet and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can guide you in identifying ways to manage triggers and refer you to an dietitian for nutrition advice or other assistance.
Consult your GP for more information. Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific evidence or that could interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they be suffering from ADHD should consult a mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist for a diagnosis. The doctor will take a detailed history, conduct a physical exam and review medical records to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe their behavior, and utilize standardized ratings scales. The therapist will assess the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms, as in determining whether they have a significant impact on a person's daily life.
Usually, a therapist will collaborate with the patient and family to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other organizational strategies, and train the patient on metacognitive techniques that focus on the identification and modification of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of alternatives. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive care.
Parents can assist by providing a secure, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, promoting a good sleep hygiene, and avoiding stimulants. Parents must also encourage their child to be social and try to build a healthy bond with their partner.
School staff can provide valuable information on the learning and behavior of students However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. These decisions are taken by the child's parents, health care provider and teacher with the assistance of the other.