How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. He will also look at your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a breakup is a trigger for awareness of the problem. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving function is to obtain a diagnosis.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with being still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools or in other settings, kids who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD suffer from these issues to the extent that impairs functioning at home, in school or at work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should be present for at least 6 months and must be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or developmental level. They must also be causing significant issues at school, at work, home and in relationships.
A certified health professional will conduct a clinical assessment to determine the presence of ADHD. This may include a physical exam, and checking for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health professional may also examine the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. He will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are generally specific to their age and parents are sometimes interviewed as well.
The doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). He or she will examine the patient's current symptoms as well as past behavior, and look at the ways they affect their social, family and professional life. If possible, he will look at the person's behavior in their childhood and school experiences, too.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will be able to determine whether they have a co-occurring mental health issue and will inquire whether the patient has a family history of ADHD. People who have family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it.
If the health care provider suspects that a patient has ADHD the doctor will give the person an exhaustive clinical evaluation which includes reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily diary of their symptoms for a few weeks. They can also ask the person about any other medical conditions they suffer from, and refer them to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health 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, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Family physicians may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and might refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an extensive medical examination, including assessment of hearing and vision. A specialist may also suggest a brain scanner known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the relative intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a safe, noninvasive method for screening individuals for ADHD.
The examiner will review the patient's medical history including his psychiatric and medical history dating to his childhood. The doctor will also discuss the individual's current symptoms as well as 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 will request teachers and other professionals who spend a great deal of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. The doctor might also ask parents to complete these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, coworkers, 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. The doctor will determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and whether they are causing impairment at home, in the workplace, at school, or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. He or she must also search for physical causes, for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also look at the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging the school staff to observe their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also help teach methods of relaxation and calming such as meditation or yoga. adult diagnosis of adhd suffering from ADHD benefit from regular exercise and a healthy diet which can improve their ability to concentrate and focus. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks that can worsen their symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout the adolescent years, and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD, and the severity of it. The evaluation includes a mental history and physical examination and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents, spouses or partners, and other people who are familiar with the person. The provider may ask the person to list their symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor could also use rating scales and other tests to verify that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. They will also collect a note of any medical conditions which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD like seizures and thyroid disorders.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD the medication is typically prescribed to manage the symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children and adults. These medications can trigger side effects. It is recommended that you take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages of medication before settling on the one that is right for them.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In certain cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers may help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers could include sleep and diet and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can assist you on how to control triggers, and can refer you to a dietitian for nutritional advice or for additional assistance.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid nutritional supplements that don't have a scientific backing or interfere with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may have ADHD should consult an expert in mental health like psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct a physical examination and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the patient's behavior in various environments and apply standardized rating scales. He or she will consider the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms, as in determining whether they have a significant impact on a person's everyday life.
Often, a therapist will collaborate with the patient and family to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other strategies for organization and instruct the patient in metacognitive techniques that involve the identification and modification of "thinking distortions" that lead to negative moods and perceptions about the lack of alternatives. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also assist by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep habits and refraining from stimulants. They should also encourage their children to socialize, and work to establish a healthy relationship with their spouse.
Staff at the school can provide valuable information on issues with learning and behavior in a child however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. The parents of the child and their health care provider must make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.