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.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in life. A major event such as pregnancy or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the issue. Finding a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble being still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools or in other settings, kids who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues in a way that affects their functioning at home, in school or at work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity have to be present for at least six months and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental level. Additionally, they must be causing significant pain and issues at home, school or work, and also in relationships.
A qualified health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to determine the presence of ADHD. This may include a thorough physical exam and a look for other conditions which can cause similar symptoms like thyroid disease or depression. The health care professional will also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents can be interviewed.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are outlined in DSM-5 the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will analyze the person's behavior in the past and present and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If it is possible, he or will look at the person's childhood behavior and school experiences, too.
When conducting adhd in adults undiagnosed on adults, the doctor will consider whether or not they have a co-occurring mental health issue, and will ask if the person has a family history of ADHD. People who have family members with the disorder are more likely to develop it.
If the health care provider suspects someone is suffering from ADHD, he or she will conduct an extensive clinical assessment that includes a review of their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a diary of their symptoms for a few weeks. They will also inquire about any other conditions that the person may have, and will use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine whether they meet the criteria for ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or are interested in ADHD can conduct screenings and determine the severity of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all able to diagnose ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents, and might refer adults to specialists for a thorough assessment.
A thorough medical exam which includes a thorough assessment of hearing and sight, is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. A doctor may also recommend an MRI scanner called an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the relative intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.
In an interview with the person, the examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, and also his current 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 will ask teachers and others who spend a lot of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. The doctor may request parents to fill out these forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, colleagues 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 if they result in impairment at home, in school, at work, or in any other area of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she must also look for physical causes for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. A thorough examination will also examine the person's psychological, social and family history.
Treatment
Children with 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 showing flexible and patient. They can also help teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming like yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can enhance the ability of many children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can aggravate their symptoms. They should also ensure they get enough sleep.
The signs of ADHD are present throughout adolescence and into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest in the form of problems at work or in relationships. A doctor will perform an evaluation to determine whether a person has ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation usually includes an examination of the mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual and their parents, a spouse or life partner and others who know the person well. The healthcare provider might request the patient to list their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she can also use rating scales and other tests to determine whether the person meets the the standard criteria for ADHD. They will also collect a history of any medical issues that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication will usually be prescribed to control the symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children as well as adults. They are able to cause side consequences, and therefore a person should only take them under a medical supervision and with a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications are taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages of medication before settling on one that works for him or her.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers may help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to the way you eat, your sleep habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can assist you on how to manage triggers and refer you to an dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Consult your GP for more information. Beware of dietary supplements that do not have a scientific basis or could interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should consult an expert in mental health, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist to establish a diagnosis. The doctor will review medical records, conduct a physical examination and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe their behavior and use standard ratings scales. They will also consider the severity and frequency of core ADHD symptoms, and if they affect a person's life.
Often, a therapist will collaborate with the family and patient to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other strategies for organization and instruct the patient in metacognitive strategies, which involve identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that lead to negative moods and perceptions of a lack of choices. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care.
Parents can also help by providing a secure and loving home with clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoid stimulants. They should also encourage their children to be social and work to develop a healthy relationship with their partner.
School staff can provide valuable information regarding the behavior and learning issues of students however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. These decisions are taken by the child's parents, health provider, and teacher with the support of each other.