How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
A lot of people are diagnosed with ADHD later in life. A major event, such as pregnancy or a crisis in a relationship can trigger awareness of the issue. The first step in addressing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to receive a diagnosis.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with staying still, waiting for their turn, and paying attention at schools and other settings, kids who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems in a way that affects their functioning at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for a minimum of 6 months and must be significantly more than what is typical for the child's age or developmental level. Additionally, they should be causing significant suffering and issues at school, at home or work, and in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a certified health care provider. This could include a physical examination, and checking for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like thyroid disease or depression. The health professional may also review the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents can be interviewed as well.
The doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults that are described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will review the patient's current symptoms as well as previous behavior, focusing on the ways they affect their family, social, and professional lives. If possible, he or will look at the person's past behavior as well as school experiences too.
When evaluating adults, the provider will take into account whether they suffer from a co-occurring mental health condition and ask whether the patient has any family history of ADHD. People with family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects that a patient has ADHD the doctor will give the person an extensive clinical assessment, including reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a diary of their symptoms for several weeks. He or she may also ask the person about any other issues they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the individual meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care 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 and psychiatrists are all qualified to diagnose ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They might recommend adults to undergo a thorough assessment.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is an extensive medical examination that includes an evaluation of vision and hearing. In addition, a specialist may recommend the brain scan, also known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the concentration of theta and beta waves in the brain. This kind of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive and secure method.
In an interview with the individual the examiner will review the person's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, and also the 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 fill out checklists or questionnaires. He or she might also ask parents to complete these forms. For adults, he or she will often talk to spouses and other close friends, as well as co-workers and may also interview relatives who know 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. They will also determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and whether they are causing problems at home, at the workplace, at school, or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional must also be able to detect other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They should also search for physical causes such as thyroid problems or sleep disorders. Additionally an extensive screening will also check the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging the school staff to watch the child with a keen eye, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. get diagnosed with adhd can also teach the child relaxation and calming techniques like yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can boost the ability of children suffering from ADHD to concentrate and focus. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks, as they can make their symptoms worse. They should also ensure they sleep enough.
Symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties in their work or relationships. A doctor will perform an evaluation 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 individual, his or parents, spouses or partners, and others who are familiar with the person. The doctor may ask the person to list their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she might also employ ratings scales and other tests to determine if the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that could be a cause of ADHD symptoms, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD A medication is typically prescribed to treat the symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children as well as adults. These medications can trigger side effects. A person should only take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with the prescription of a doctor. Discuss with your doctor any medications you are taking. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants, causing dangerous side effects. Many individuals with ADHD need to try a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before they find one that works for them.
Prevention
In certain cases, reducing exposure to environmental triggers can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These can include the way you eat, your sleeping habits, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control these triggers, and refer you for additional support or to a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.
Children can also be helped by keeping their routines the same, limiting caffeine and sugar, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without research-based backing or that might interfere with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should seek out an expert in mental health like psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will review medical records, perform physical examinations and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the person's behavior, and utilize standardized ratings scales. They will also consider the severity and frequency of the core ADHD symptoms, and whether they result in significant impairments in the person's life.
adhd diagnosis in adults , therapists will work with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other strategies for organization and instruct the patient in metacognitive strategies that focus on identifying and modifying "thinking distortions" that lead to negative moods and perceptions of limited alternatives. Psychologists may prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.
Parents can help by providing a stable family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting a good sleep hygiene, and avoid stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to interact with others and develop a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
The staff at the school may offer valuable information regarding the behavior and learning challenges of a child however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. Parents and the student's health care provider have to make these decisions with the support of the teacher.