How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. He will also review your family history.
A lot of people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. A major event such as the birth of a child or a relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to obtain a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting to be called, and paying attention at school or other situations. These issues can greatly impact their performance at home, work, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity must be present for at least six months and must be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's age and development level. They should also be causing significant problems at work, school or at home, as well as in relationships.
A qualified health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to determine the presence of ADHD. This may include a thorough physical examination and a look for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to depression or thyroid disease. The doctor will also review the family history of the patient and examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents may be interviewed.
The physician will follow 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 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the person's current symptoms and past behavior, looking at how they interfere with their family, social, and professional life. If it is possible, he or will look at the person's childhood behavior and school experiences, too.
When looking at adults, the physician will be able to determine whether or not they suffer from an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring and will inquire whether the person has any family history of ADHD. People with family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a doctor suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD the doctor will conduct an entire clinical examination. This includes reviewing the patient's current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms over the course of a few weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other medical conditions the person has and will consult the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine if they have any of the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or are interested in ADHD can conduct screenings and make a diagnosis of the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and. Family physicians may also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents, and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
A thorough medical examination that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A specialist may recommend the brain scan, also called an EEG-Based Assessment Tool, or NEBA, to measure the concentration of beta and theta waves within the brain. adults diagnosed with adhd of scan is a non-invasive, safe method for screening individuals for ADHD.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history, including his medical and psychiatric background that goes to his 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 ask teachers and other staff members who spend a great deal of time with children to complete questionnaires or checklists. They might also ask parents to complete such forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, coworkers, 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 determine how long symptoms have been present and if they result in problems at home, at the workplace, at school, or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional must also be able to detect other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. They should also search for physical causes for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. A thorough examination will also look at the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging the school staff to watch their child closely, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming like yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can boost the ability of children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods high in sugar can cause more symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist through adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest in the form of difficulties at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation typically includes an examination of the mental health history, a physical exam and interviews with the person, his or her parents, a spouse or partner and other people who know him or her well. The doctor may request the patient to list their symptoms and how they affect them. They might also employ ratings scales and other tests to confirm that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that may mimic ADHD symptoms, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD the medication will usually be prescribed to treat the symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children and adults. These drugs can cause side effects. A person should only take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants, causing dangerous side effects. Many individuals with ADHD need to try a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before they find the one that is right for them.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some instances, reducing exposure to environmental triggers can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers could include diet and sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can help you on how to manage triggers and refer you to a dietitian to get nutrition advice or other assistance.
Children can also be helped by keeping their routines the same by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Beware of nutritional supplements that don't have a scientific backing or interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may be suffering from ADHD should consult an expert in mental health like a psychiatrist or psychologist for a diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct physical examinations and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, examine the patient's behavior in various environments and apply standard rating scales. The therapist will take into consideration the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms, as being aware of whether they have an impact on the person's daily life.
A therapist can work with a patient and their family to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of limited alternatives. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can aid by offering a safe, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to interact with others and establish a healthy bond between them and their loved ones.
The staff at the school may provide valuable information on behavior and learning issues in a child however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. The parents of the child and their healthcare provider must make these decisions with the assistance of the teacher.