How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any history of ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a breakup can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to get a diagnosis.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble being still, waiting for their turn, and paying attention at schools or in other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD suffer from these issues to the extent that hinders their performance at home, in school or at work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental stage. Additionally, they should be causing significant suffering and issues at school, at home or work, and also in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a certified health care provider. This may include a physical examination, and also examining for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider will also look at the person's family history and review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. In addition, he will ask the patient questions about his or her symptoms. For children, the questions are usually targeted towards their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will examine the patient's behavior in the past and present and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If it is possible the therapist may also review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will look into whether they have mental health issues that co-occurs, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. People who have family members who suffer from the disorder are more prone to develop it.
If a health professional suspects someone is suffering from ADHD the doctor will give the person an exhaustive clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and asking them to keep a diary of their symptoms for several weeks. The doctor will also inquire about any other conditions the patient has and will consult the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine whether they meet the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can perform screening and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner and psychiatrists are all certified to diagnose ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They may recommend adults to undergo a thorough evaluation.
A thorough medical exam, including an assessment of sight and hearing, is the first step towards diagnosing ADHD. Additionally, a doctor may recommend 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 is a safe, noninvasive method for screening individuals for ADHD.
click to investigate will go over the patient's medical history, including his medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood. The doctor will also discuss the individual's current symptoms as well as 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).
The doctor may request teachers and other professionals who spend a great deal of time with children to complete questionnaires or checklists. He or she may also ask parents complete such forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, co-workers and other close family members. They may 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 are causing impairment at home, in school, at work or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. He or she should also check for physical causes of the person's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep issues. A thorough examination will also take a look at the person's social, emotional 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 monitor the child with a keen eye, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation and calming techniques, such as meditation or yoga. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can enhance the ability of many children suffering from ADHD to concentrate and focus. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, as they can aggravate their symptoms. They should also make sure they get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties at work or with relationships. A healthcare professional will perform an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state as well as a physical exam and interviews with the individual and his or her parents or spouses, and others who are familiar with him or her. The provider may ask for a list of the person's symptoms and how they affect him or her. The doctor may also utilize rating scales or other tests to determine whether the person meets the typical criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that could be a cause of ADHD symptoms, like seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If click to investigate is diagnosed as having ADHD, medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medicines used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These drugs can cause side effects. It is recommended that you use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications is taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD must try different types and doses of medications before they discover one that works.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers from the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. This could include the way you eat, your sleeping habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can help you in identifying ways to manage triggers and suggest a dietitian to get nutritional advice or additional support.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no research-based backing or that might interfere with certain medications.
Adults who believe they be suffering from ADHD should consult a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist for a diagnosis. 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 causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the person's behavior and use the standard ratings scales. The therapist will also examine the presence and duration of core ADHD symptoms, and if they affect the life of a person.
Usually, a therapist will collaborate with the family and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other organizational strategies and educate the patient in metacognitive strategies that focus on the identification and modification of "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions of limited options. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care.
Parents can also aid by providing a secure and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep habits and refraining from stimulants. They should encourage their child to be social and establish a healthy bond 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 competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. The student's parents and health care provider have to make these decisions with the assistance of the teacher.