How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A major event such as a pregnancy or relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the issue. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to obtain an assessment.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting for a call and paying attention in school or in other environments. These problems can significantly affect their functioning at home, work, or school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for at least six months and must be higher than what is normal for the child's age or developmental level. They must also be causing significant issues at school, work and at home as well as in relationships.
Being diagnosed with ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a certified health care provider. This may include a physical exam, and also examining for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health professional may also review the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. Suggested Reading will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents can be interviewed.
The physician will follow 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 review the person's current symptoms and past behavior, and look at how they interfere with their family, social and professional life. If possible, he or will look at the person's childhood behavior and school experiences too.
When conducting an assessment of adults, a doctor will determine if they suffer from mental health issues that is co-occurring, as well as whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a doctor suspects someone may have ADHD, they will perform an extensive clinical assessment. This includes reviewing the patient's current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms over a period of several weeks. The doctor may also ask the person about any other issues they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient is in compliance with 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. This includes clinical psychologists nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and might refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam that includes an assessment of hearing and vision. Additionally, a doctor might suggest the brain scan, also called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to measure the amount of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a non-invasive, safe method of screening people for ADHD.
In an interview with the individual the examiner will review the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, as well as his current symptoms and coping strategies. 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 other staff members who spend a great deal of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents to fill out these forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, co-workers and other close family members. They might also want 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 determine how long symptoms have been present and whether they cause impairment at home, in school, at work or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she must also search for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough examination will also look at the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can support this by encouraging school staff to watch their child closely, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation and calming techniques, such as meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD benefit from regular exercise and a healthy diet which will increase their ability to concentrate and focus. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can aggravate their symptoms. They should also ensure they get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can persist through adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties in their work or relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This usually involves an assessment of mental health as well as a physical examination and interviews with the individual, his or her parents, spouse or partner and others who know the person well. The provider may ask for a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. They could also use rating scales or other tests to confirm that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. They will also conduct a medical history of any medical issues that have a tendency to mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication will usually be prescribed to treat the symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed drugs used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These medications can trigger negative side effects. It is recommended that you take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications she is taking, because certain medications can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many individuals with ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages before finding the one that is right for them.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some cases, reducing exposure to environmental triggers may help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers may include diet and sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can help you find ways to control these triggers, and refer you for additional assistance or to a dietitian who can recommend nutritional changes.
Consult your GP for more information. Try to avoid dietary supplements that do not have a scientific basis or could be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who suspect ADHD should see a mental health professional for diagnosis, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, to determine the 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 speak with the patient, observe the person's behavior, and utilize standard ratings scales. They will also consider the duration and presence of core ADHD symptoms, and if they affect a person's life.
Often, a therapist will collaborate with the family and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other organizational strategies, and train the patient in metacognitive strategies that involve identifying and modifying "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions of limited choices. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide complete care.
Parents can also assist by providing a stable and loving home with clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoiding stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to interact with others and develop a healthy relationship between them and their loved ones.
The staff at the school may provide valuable information on the behavior and learning challenges of a child however, they aren't qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. Parents and the student's health care provider must make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.