The Hidden Secrets Of ADHD Diagnoses
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms and your previous experiences with ADHD. He will also review your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. An event that is significant, such as a pregnancy or relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to get an assessment.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble staying still, waiting for their turn and paying attention in schools and other settings, those who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems in a way that hinders their performance at home, school or work. The symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity should have been present for at minimum six months and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental level. They should also be causing significant issues at work, school or at home, as well as in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a qualified health care provider. This could include a physical examination, and a look at other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or thyroid disease. The doctor will also look at the person's family history and review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. In addition, he will ask the patient questions about their symptoms. For children the questions are generally specific to their age and parents are sometimes interviewed as well.
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 examine the patient's past and current behavior and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If possible the therapist will look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, the provider will take into account whether they have a co-occurring mental health issue and will inquire whether the person has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a health professional suspects that a patient has ADHD the doctor will conduct an exhaustive clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms for some weeks. He or she may also inquire about any other medical conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can perform screening and determine the severity of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all certified to identify ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They can refer adults for a comprehensive evaluation.
A thorough medical examination that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. Additionally, a doctor may suggest the brain scan, also known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to measure the relative concentration of the theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive and secure way.
In an interview with the individual an examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, as well as his present 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).
The doctor will ask teachers and others who spend a great deal of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. He or she may also ask parents to complete such forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, co-workers and other close friends. 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. He or she will also determine the length of time the symptoms have been present for, and whether they are causing impairment at home, school, work or in other aspects of life.
The mental health professional must also look for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. The professional should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep disorders. Additionally an extensive screening will also look at the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging the school staff to watch their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patience. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques like yoga or meditation. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet which will enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks that can make their symptoms worse. adhd diagnosis uk adults should also sleep enough.
The signs of ADHD are present throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest as trouble at work or in relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD and the extent of it. The evaluation consists of an assessment of the mental state and physical examination and interviews with the person as well as his or her parents, spouses or partners, and other people who are familiar with the person. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor may also utilize rating scales or other tests to confirm whether the person meets the typical criteria for ADHD. He or she may also inquire about any medical conditions that may be a cause of ADHD symptoms, like seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. adhd diagnosis for adults of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children and adults. They are able to cause side negative effects, therefore one should only take them under medical supervision and with a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications she is taking, because certain drugs can interact with stimulants to create dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD need to test various types and dosages of medications before they discover one that works.
Prevention
In certain cases the reduction of exposure to triggers from the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. This could include the way you eat, your sleeping habits, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control triggers, and can suggest a dietitian for nutrition advice or other assistance.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no scientific evidence or that could be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should see an expert in mental health like a psychologist or psychiatrist, for diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct an examination of the body and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe the person's behavior in different environments and apply the standard rating scales. The therapist will also look at the duration and presence of the core ADHD symptoms, and if they affect the person's life.
Most often, therapists will work with the patient and family to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other organizational strategies and educate the patient in metacognitive techniques that involve identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of choices. Psychologists can prescribe certain medications and work with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also assist by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting good sleep habits and refraining from stimulants. They should also encourage their child to socialize, and try to develop a healthy relationship with their spouse.
School staff can provide valuable information about the learning and behavior of students however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. These decisions are made by the student's parents, health provider, and teacher with assistance of the other.