How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and your history with ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. A major event such as a pregnancy or relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. Getting a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble being seated, waiting for a call and paying attention in school or other environments. These issues can greatly affect their functioning at work, home or at school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity have to be present for at least 6 months and be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or developmental level. In addition, they must be causing significant suffering and problems at home, school or at work, as well as in relationships.
A certified health professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to determine the presence of ADHD. This could include a physical exam, and also examining for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or thyroid disease. The doctor will also look at the person's family history as well as examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, he will interview the person about the symptoms they are experiencing. Suggested Reading are asked questions based on their age and parents are also able to be interviewed.
The provider will use 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 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will examine the patient's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If possible, the therapist will also review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will be able to determine whether or not they have an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring and ask if the person has a family history of ADHD. People who have family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to have it themselves.
If a doctor suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD the doctor will conduct a full clinical evaluation. This involves examining the patient's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms over the course of a few weeks. He or she will also ask about any other issues the patient has and will refer to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine whether they meet the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and. Family doctors may diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They may refer adults for a comprehensive evaluation.
A thorough medical exam, including an assessment of hearing and sight, is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. Additionally, a doctor may recommend a brain scan known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the amount of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive, secure method.
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 may request teachers and other professionals who spend a great deal of time with children to fill out questionnaires or checklists. They may also ask parents complete these forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, colleagues and other close family members. They might also wish 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. The doctor will also determine for how long the symptoms have been present for, and whether they are causing impairment at home, school or at work, or in other areas of daily life.
The mental health professional must also look for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. The professional should also search for physical causes, for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. A thorough examination will also look at 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's progress, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques like meditation or yoga. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular physical exercise and a healthy diet, which can improve their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks that can make their symptoms worse. Also, they should ensure they get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can persist through adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest as difficulties at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD, and the severity of it. The evaluation includes a mental history as well as a physical exam and interviews with the person and his or her parents or spouses, and other people familiar with him or her. The doctor may request an inventory of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. He or she might also employ ratings scales and other tests to verify that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. The doctor will also collect a note of any medical conditions that have a tendency to mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed with ADHD the medication will usually be prescribed to control the symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. medications used to treat ADHD in children and adults. These medications can cause negative side effects. It is recommended that you take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with the prescription of a doctor. Tell your doctor about the medications you take. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many individuals with ADHD have to test a variety of types and dosages before settling on one that works for them.
Prevention
In some instances, reducing exposure to triggers from the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers could include diet and sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can assist you on how to control triggers and suggest a dietitian to get nutrition advice or other assistance.
Children can also be helped by following the same routines, limiting caffeine and sugar and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific evidence or that could interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect ADHD should see an expert in mental health, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, for diagnosis. The doctor will go through medical records, perform a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, look at the patient's behavior in various settings and use standard rating scales. They will also consider the presence and duration of core ADHD symptoms, and whether they result in significant impairments in the person's life.
Often, a therapist will work with the family 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 changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of options. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can help by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an excellent sleep hygiene and avoiding stimulants. They should also encourage their child to socialize, and try to build a healthy bond with their child's partner.
School staff can provide valuable information on behavior and learning problems in a student However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. These decisions must be taken by the student's parents, health provider and teacher with the support of each other.