How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and history with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a crisis in a relationship can trigger awareness of the problem. Finding a diagnosis is the first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty being seated, waiting for a call, and paying attention at school or in other situations. These issues can greatly affect their functioning at work, at home or at school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for at least six months and must be more than what is typical for the child's age and development level. Additionally, they should be causing significant distress and difficulties at home, school or work, and also in relationships.
A trained health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. This may include a thorough physical examination and a check for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health care professional will also review the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, he will interview the person about their symptoms. For children the questions are generally geared toward their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed too.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD for children and adults as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will review the person's current symptoms and previous behavior, focusing on the ways they affect their social, family and professional life. If possible, he or will look at the person's past behavior as well as school experiences as well.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will be able to determine whether they suffer from an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring, and will ask whether the person has any family history of ADHD. Family members of those with 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 exhaustive clinical evaluation which includes reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms for several weeks. They will also ask about any other conditions the patient has and will refer to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine whether they meet the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner and psychiatrists are all certified to recognize ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and might refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an extensive medical examination, including assessment of hearing and vision. In addition, a specialist might suggest an examination of the brain, called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid, or NEBA to measure the amount of beta and theta waves within the brain. This type of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive, safe way.
The examiner will review the patient's medical history, including his medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood. The doctor will also discuss the person's current 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 will ask teachers and other staff members who spend a great deal of time with children to fill out questionnaires or checklists. He or she might also ask parents to fill out these forms. For adults, they will often talk to spouses and other close friends, and also co-workers and might also 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 impairment at home, school and at work, or in other areas of daily life.
The mental health professional should also check for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. The professional should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. A thorough screening will also look at the person's psychological, social and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging school staff to monitor their child closely, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also help teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming like yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can enhance the ability of many children with ADHD to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can worsen symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can last through adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD, and the severity of it. This evaluation includes a mental history, a physical examination, and interviews with the individual and his or her parents or spouses, and others who are familiar with him or her. The healthcare provider might request the patient to list their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she can also use rating scales and other tests to determine that the person is in compliance with standard criteria for ADHD. They can inquire about medical conditions that could be similar to ADHD symptoms, for example thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed 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. They are able to cause side effects, so a person should only use them under a medical supervision and with a prescription. It is also important to inform the doctor about any other medications he or is taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages before settling on the one that is right for him or her.
Prevention
In certain cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers in the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include sleep and diet and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can assist you in finding ways to deal with these triggers and can refer you for additional support or to a dietitian to suggest changes to your diet.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid dietary supplements without scientific evidence or that could interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should consult a mental health professional for diagnosis, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, to determine the diagnosis. adult diagnosis adhd will take a detailed history, conduct physical examination and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe their behavior, and utilize standard ratings scales. He or she will also look at the duration and presence of core ADHD symptoms, and if they result in significant impairments in the person's life.
Therapists may work with a patient and their family members to improve parenting, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities that include the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care.
Parents can also help by providing a secure and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoid 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 offer valuable information regarding behavior and learning issues in a child however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions must be made by the student's parents, health care provider and teacher with the cooperation of all three.