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 life. A significant event, like pregnancy or a relationship crisis, triggers awareness of the issue. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to get a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble being seated, waiting to be called and paying attention in school or other situations. These issues can greatly affect their functioning at work, at home or at school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should be present for a minimum of 6 months and be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's age or development level. They should also be causing significant issues at work, school, home and in relationships.
A trained health care professional must conduct a medical evaluation to determine the presence of ADHD. This could include a thorough physical examination and a check for other conditions which can cause similar symptoms like thyroid disease or depression. The doctor will also review the person's family history and review medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, he will ask the patient questions about his or her symptoms. For children, the questions are usually geared toward their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed too.
The doctor will apply the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults and children that are described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will analyze the person's behavior in the past and present and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If it is possible the therapist may also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will look into whether they have mental health issues that is co-occurring, and if there is a history of ADHD in the family. People who have family members with ADHD are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone may have ADHD, they will perform an extensive clinical assessment. This will include analyzing the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a journal every day of their symptoms over a period of a few weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other conditions the person has, and will use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if they have any of the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness can test and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all able to identify ADHD. Family physicians may also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
A thorough medical examination, including an assessment of sight and hearing is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A doctor may also recommend an MRI scanner called an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a non-invasive, safe method for screening individuals for ADHD.
In an interview with the person, the examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, in addition to the present symptoms and coping strategies. 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).
For diagnosis adhd and children who are being assessed for ADHD The doctor may ask teachers and other people who spend long periods of time with the child to fill out questionnaires or checklists. He or she might also request parents to fill out the forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, coworkers, and other close family members. They might 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 the length of time that symptoms have been present and whether they cause impairment at home, in school, at work, or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional should also check for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. The professional should also look for physical causes, like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. Additionally the thorough examination will also look at the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. Family members can help them by encouraging school staff to monitor the child's progress, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques like meditation or yoga. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can boost the ability of children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks that can aggravate their symptoms. They should also ensure they get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can last through the adolescent years, and into adulthood. In read review , they may manifest as difficulties at work or in relationships. A doctor will perform an evaluation to determine whether a person has ADHD and how severe it is. This evaluation usually includes an examination of the mental health history, a physical exam and interviews with the person, his or her parents, spouse or life partner and others who know the person well. The healthcare provider might ask the person to list their symptoms and how they affect them. He or she may also use rating scales or other tests to verify that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. read review or she will also take a history of any medical problems that have a tendency to mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication will usually be prescribed to control the symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. medications used to treat ADHD in children and adults. These medications have the potential to cause side effects, so a person should only use them under a medical supervision and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. Certain medications can interact with stimulants, causing dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD need to try a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before settling on one that is suitable for them.
The following is a list with preventions.
In some instances, reducing exposure to environmental triggers can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, routines for sleeping, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in identifying ways to manage triggers and refer you to a dietitian to get nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be helped by following the same routines by limiting sugar and caffeine and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no scientific backing or that may interfere with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should consult an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will take a detailed history, conduct an examination of the body and look over medical records to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe the patient's behavior and apply standard ratings scales. The therapist will take into consideration 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 and their family to improve parenting skills, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can also aid by providing a secure and loving home with clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. Parents should also encourage their children 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 the behavior and learning challenges of the child however, they aren't competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions must be taken by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with assistance of the other.