How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any history of ADHD. He will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A major event, such as pregnancy or a breakup can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to obtain an assessment.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty waiting for a call and focusing at school or other situations. These issues can seriously affect their functioning at work, home, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for a minimum of 6 months and must be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age and development level. In addition, they must be causing significant suffering and difficulties at school, at home or at work, as well as in relationships.
A trained health care professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to diagnose ADHD. This may include a thorough physical examination and a review of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms like depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider may also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. Additionally, he will talk to the patient about their symptoms. Children 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 outlined in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the patient's behavior in the past and present and how it affects their professional, social and family life. If possible the therapist will review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, the provider will be able to determine whether they have a co-occurring mental health condition, and will ask whether the person has a family history of ADHD. People with family members who have the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a doctor suspects someone may have ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This includes reviewing the patient's symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily log of their symptoms over the course of a few weeks. He or she will also inquire about any other issues the patient has and will consult the DSM-5 symptom guide to see if they have any of the criteria for 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. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all qualified to recognize ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They may send adults to a full assessment.
A thorough medical exam that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing is the first step towards diagnosing ADHD. A doctor may also recommend the use of a brain scanner, also known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a non-invasive, safe method to screen people for ADHD.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical background that goes back to childhood. He will also discuss the person's present symptoms and strategies for 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 others who spend a lot of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. They may ask parents to fill out these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, coworkers, and other close friends. 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 if they are causing problems at school, home and at work, or in other areas of daily life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders which 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 screening will also take a look at the person's psychological, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can support this by encouraging school staff to monitor their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation and calming techniques like meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular exercise and a healthy diet, which can improve their ability to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods high in sugar can worsen symptoms. They must also get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can persist through the adolescent years, and into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest in the form of trouble at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation typically includes a mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents, spouse or partner and other people who know him or her well. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they affect him or her. diagnosis for adhd in adults might also employ rating scales and other tests to verify that the person is in compliance with the standardized criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that can be similar to ADHD symptoms, for example seizures and thyroid disorders.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD the medication will usually be prescribed to manage the symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children as well as adults. They are able to cause adverse negative effects, therefore one should only use them under a medical supervision and with a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or are taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD have to try different types and doses of medications before they discover one that works.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some cases the reduction of exposure to environmental triggers can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, routines for sleeping and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can guide you in identifying ways to control triggers and recommend an dietitian for nutrition advice or other assistance.
Consult your GP for more details. Beware of nutritional supplements that don't have scientific backing or may interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they be suffering from ADHD should consult a mental health professional like 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 reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the person's behavior and apply standardized ratings scales. The therapist will assess the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms as well being aware of whether they have an impact on the person's daily life.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient as well as their family members to improve parenting, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive skills that include identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of a lack of choices. Psychologists are able to prescribe certain medications and work with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can aid by offering a safe family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an excellent sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. Parents must also encourage their child to interact with others, and try to establish a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
Staff at the school can provide valuable information about issues with learning and behavior in children however, they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions must be taken by the child's parents, health care provider, and teacher with cooperation of all three.