How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms and your history with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A major event such as pregnancy or a relationship problems can prompt awareness of the problem. The first step in addressing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to get an assessment.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty waiting to be called, and paying attention at school or in other environments. These problems can significantly impact their performance at home, work or at school. The signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity should have been present for at minimum six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental level. Additionally, they must be causing significant suffering and issues at school, at home or work, and in relationships.
Being diagnosed with ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a trained health care professional. This may include a thorough physical exam and a review of other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health care professional will also review the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, the doctor will talk to the patient about the symptoms they are experiencing. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents are also able to be interviewed.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will analyze the person's behavior in the past and present and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If it is possible the therapist will review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will determine if they suffer from a mental health issue that is co-occurring, and the presence of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects that someone has ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will give the person an exhaustive clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily diary of their symptoms for some weeks. The doctor may also ask the person about any other conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the individual has any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who are interested in ADHD or have a specialization in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner and psychiatrists are all qualified to identify ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
A thorough medical exam which includes a thorough assessment of sight and hearing, is the first step towards diagnosing ADHD. A specialist might also suggest a brain scanner known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history including his psychiatric and medical history that dates to his childhood. He will also discuss the person's current symptoms and ways of 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).
For teens and children being evaluated for ADHD, the doctor may request teachers and other individuals who spend a lot of time with the child to fill in questionnaires or checklists. The doctor may also request parents to fill out the forms. Adults are often asked to speak to their spouses, co-workers and other close family members. They may also want to interview someone who has been with 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. The doctor will determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and if they result in problems at home, at the workplace, at school, or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. A thorough screening will also take a look at the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging school staff to monitor their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also teach relaxation and calming methods, such as meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD benefit from regular physical exercise and a healthy diet which can enhance their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can worsen symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
The signs of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest as problems at work or in relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. adhd diagnosing includes an examination of the mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual and their parents, spouse or life partner and others who know the person well. The healthcare provider might request an inventory of the person's symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor may also use ratings scales and other tests to verify that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They will also take a note of any medical conditions that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD medications is prescribed to manage symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children and adults. These medications can trigger negative side effects. A person should only use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with prescription. Inform your doctor about the medications you take. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to try various types and dosages of medication before they can find one that works.
Prevention
In certain cases the reduction of exposure to triggers in the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These can include eating habits, routines for sleeping, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control triggers and refer you to a dietitian to get nutritional advice or additional support.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific evidence or that could interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they be suffering from ADHD should see a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will look over medical records, perform an examination of the body and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and apply standard ratings scales. The therapist will assess the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as as whether they have a significant impact on a person's daily life.
Often, a therapist will collaborate with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills to teach time management and other strategies for organization, and train the patient on metacognitive techniques that focus on identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that lead to negative moods and perceptions about the lack of options. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive care.
Parents can aid by providing a secure family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an excellent sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to socialize with others and establish a healthy bond with their child's partner.
The staff at the school can provide valuable information about issues with learning and behavior in the child however, they aren't qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. These decisions must be taken by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with cooperation of all three.