How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A significant event like pregnancy or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the problem. Getting a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Many children have difficulty staying still, waiting their turn and paying attention in school or in other settings, children who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD suffer from these issues to a degree that significantly hinders their performance at home, in school or at work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should be present for at least six months and must be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or development level. Additionally, they must be causing significant suffering and issues at home, school or work, and in relationships.
Getting adhd adult diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a certified health professional. This may include a physical exam, and a look at other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. The health professional will also examine the person's family history as well as review medical, psychiatric and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions in accordance with their age. parents may be interviewed.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD for children and adults as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will examine the patient's behavior in the past and present and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If it is possible, he or she will review the person's behavior in their childhood and school experiences, too.
When looking at adults, the physician will take into account whether they suffer from a co-occurring mental health issue and will inquire whether the person has any family history of ADHD. People who have family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a doctor suspects someone has ADHD the doctor will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This will include analyzing the person's current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms over a time of a few weeks. He or she may also inquire about any other conditions they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can perform screening and determine the severity of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all certified to recognize ADHD. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam which includes a thorough evaluation of vision and hearing. Additionally, a doctor may suggest an examination of the brain, known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the relative concentration of the beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a non-invasive, safe method for screening individuals for ADHD.
The examiner will review the person's medical history, including his medical and psychiatric background that goes to his childhood. The doctor 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).
The doctor will request teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. The doctor may ask parents to fill in these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, co-workers and other close acquaintances. They might also wish 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 how long symptoms have been present and whether they are causing impairment at home, in the workplace, at school or in any other area of life.
The mental health professional must also look for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. They should also search for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. In addition, a thorough screening will also examine the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist with this by encouraging school staff to observe the child closely, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. adhd adult diagnosis can also help teach relaxation and calming methods like meditation or yoga. Regular physical activity and a nutritious diet can improve the ability of many children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. Sugary foods and beverages can worsen symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
The symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties at work or with relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if a person has ADHD and how severe it is. This evaluation includes a mental history and physical examination and interviews with the person, his or parents, spouses or partners, and others who are familiar with him or her. The doctor may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor might also employ rating scales or other tests to determine if the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. They can inquire about medical conditions that could be a cause of ADHD symptoms, for example seizures and thyroid disorders.
If a person is diagnosed as having ADHD the medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children as well as adults. These medications can cause negative side effects. It is recommended that you take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with prescription. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants, causing dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD must try different types and doses of medication before they find one that works.
Prevention
In some instances, reducing the exposure to triggers from the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, sleeping habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can guide you in finding ways to control triggers and refer you to an dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Consult your GP for more information. Beware of supplements for your diet that do not have a scientific basis or could be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should see a mental health professional for diagnosis, such as psychiatrist or psychologist, to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will review medical records, perform physical examinations and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the person's behavior, and utilize the standard ratings scales. They will also look at the duration and presence of core ADHD symptoms, and if they result in significant impairments in a person's life.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient as well as their family to improve parenting, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive skills which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of limited options. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can also aid by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoid stimulants. Parents should also encourage their child to interact with others, and try to develop a healthy relationship with their spouse.
School staff can provide valuable information on the behavior and learning issues of the student, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. Parents and the student's health care provider must make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.