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How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. He will also review your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A significant event, like pregnancy or a breakup can trigger awareness of the issue. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to obtain a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Many children have difficulty being still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools and other settings, children who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to the extent that hinders their performance at home, school or work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity have to be present for at least six months and be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's age and development level. Additionally, they must be causing significant distress and difficulties at school, home, at work, as well as in relationships.
Being diagnosed with ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a certified health care professional. This could include a thorough physical exam and a look for other conditions which can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health care provider may also examine the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. Additionally, he will ask the patient questions about his or her symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents may be interviewed.
The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5 the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will analyze the person's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If possible, he or she will review the person's childhood behavior and school experiences too.
When conducting an assessment of adults, a doctor will consider whether they have a mental health issue that is co-occurring, as well as whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those with ADHD are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects that someone has ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will conduct an exhaustive clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and asking them to keep a diary of their symptoms for several 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 care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can perform screening and make a diagnosis of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all able to diagnose ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
A thorough medical exam that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. Additionally, a doctor might suggest an examination of the brain, called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid, or NEBA, to measure the amount of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a non-invasive, safe method of screening people for ADHD.
The examiner will review the patient's medical history including his medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood. He will also discuss the person's current symptoms and 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).
For teens and children being screened for ADHD, the doctor may have teachers and other professionals who spend much time with the child to fill in questionnaires or checklists. He or she might ask parents to fill in such forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, colleagues and other close family members. They might also wish 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 the length of time the symptoms have been present, and whether they are causing difficulties at home, school, work or in other areas of life.
The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. The professional must also determine any physical causes for the person's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep issues. A thorough examination will also examine the person's psychological, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging the school staff to watch their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and techniques for calming like meditation or yoga. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can improve the ability of a lot of children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can worsen symptoms. They should also make sure they get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties at work or with relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone has ADHD and the extent of it. The evaluation consists of an examination of the mind and physical examination and interviews with the individual, his or parents and spouses or partners and others who are familiar with the person. The doctor may ask the person to list their symptoms and how they affect them. They might also employ ratings scales and other tests to verify that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. He or she may also ask about any medical conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms, for example seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to control symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children and adults. These drugs are likely to cause adverse consequences, and therefore a person should only use them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. adhd diagnosis in adults can interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD must try several different types and dosages before finding one that works for him or her.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some instances, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers may aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include diet and sleep habits as well as family structure and medications. A GP can guide you in finding ways to manage triggers and suggest a dietitian to get nutritional advice or for additional assistance.
Consult your GP for more information. Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no scientific evidence or that could interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should seek out an expert in mental health such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for a diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough history, do an examination of the body and review medical records to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe their behavior, and utilize the standard ratings scales. He or she will consider the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as being aware of whether they have an impact on the person's daily life.
Usually, a therapist will collaborate with the patient and family to improve parenting skills to teach time management and other organizational strategies and instruct the patient in metacognitive strategies that focus on identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods and perceptions of limited alternatives. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide complete care.
Parents can help by offering a safe family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an appropriate sleep hygiene and avoiding stimulants. They should encourage their child to socialize with others and develop a healthy relationship between them and their partner.
School staff can provide valuable information about the learning and behavior of students, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. These decisions are taken by the child's parents, health provider, and teacher with assistance of the other.