How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A significant event like the birth of a child or a relationship problems can prompt awareness of the issue. Recognizing the issue is the first step towards managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who have 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 home, work, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity must have been present for at minimum six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental stage. Additionally, they should be causing significant suffering and problems at home, school or work, and also in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a qualified health professional. This could include a thorough physical examination and a check for other conditions which can cause similar symptoms to depression or thyroid disease. The health professional may also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. adult diagnosis adhd will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are generally targeted towards their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed as well.
The doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will look at the person's present symptoms and past behavior, looking at the ways they affect their family, social, and professional life. If it is possible the therapist will review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, the provider will be able to determine whether or not they suffer from a co-occurring mental health condition and will inquire if the person has any family history of ADHD. People who have family members with the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves.
If a health professional suspects someone is suffering from ADHD the doctor will conduct an exhaustive clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily diary of their symptoms for a few weeks. They will also ask about any other issues the person has and will consult the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if they have any of the characteristics 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. This includes clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They might send adults to a full assessment.
A thorough medical examination, including an assessment of hearing and sight, is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. Additionally, a doctor may suggest a brain scan called an EEG-Based Assessment Tool, or NEBA to determine the relative concentration of the beta and theta waves within the brain. This type of scanning is a non-invasive, safe method to screen 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 present 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 may ask teachers and other staff members who spend a lot of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents to fill out the forms. For adults, they is likely to discuss marriage with spouses and other close friends as well as co-workers and may also interview someone from the family 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 for how long the symptoms have been present for, and whether they cause impairment at home, school or at work, or in other areas of daily life.
The mental health professional should also check for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she must also search for physical causes, like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also take a look at the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid with this by encouraging school staff to watch the child closely, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques like meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular physical exercise and a healthy diet, which can enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods high in sugar can cause more symptoms. They should also make sure they sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist through the adolescent years, and into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties at work or with relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This usually involves a mental health history as well as a physical examination and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents, a spouse or life partner and other people who know the person well. The doctor may request a list of the individual's symptoms and how they impact him or her. They can also utilize rating scales or other tests to determine that the person is in compliance with the standard criteria for ADHD. He or she will also conduct a medical history of any medical problems that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. drugs used to treat ADHD in adults and children. These medications can cause negative side effects. A person should only use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with the prescription of a doctor. Discuss with your doctor the medications you take. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to try different types and doses of medications before they discover one that works.
Prevention
In certain cases the reduction of exposure to triggers in the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include diet and sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can help you in identifying ways to control triggers, and can refer you to a dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be assisted by following the same routines as well as limiting sugar and caffeine and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific backing or that may interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should consult a mental health professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will go through medical records, perform a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, look at the patient's behavior in various settings and use standard rating scales. The therapist will take into consideration the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms, as well being aware of whether they have a significant impact on the person's daily life.
Therapists may work with a patient and their family to improve parenting skills, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive abilities that include identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of limited alternatives. Psychologists may prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can assist by providing a stable, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. Parents should also encourage their children to socialize, and work to build a healthy bond with their spouse.
The staff at the school may provide valuable information on issues with learning and behavior in children however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions are made by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with assistance of the other.