How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
A lot of people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. An event that is significant, such as a pregnancy or relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. Getting a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble being seated, waiting for a call and focusing at school or in other situations. These problems can significantly impact their performance at work, home or at school. The signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months, and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental stage. They must be causing major problems at work, school or at home, as well as in relationships.
A certified health professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to diagnose ADHD. This could include a thorough physical examination and a review of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider may also review the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, the doctor will interview the person about the symptoms they are experiencing. For children the questions are typically targeted towards their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are outlined in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will analyze the person's past and current behavior and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If it is possible, the therapist will also examine the person's school and childhood experiences.
When looking at adults, the physician will take into account whether or not they have an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring, and will ask if the person has a family history of ADHD. People with family members with the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects that a patient has ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will conduct an exhaustive clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms for a few weeks. They will also ask about any other issues the patient 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 are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners and psychiatrists are all able to diagnose ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They might recommend adults to undergo a thorough evaluation.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an extensive medical examination which includes a thorough evaluation of vision and hearing. Additionally, a doctor may recommend the brain scan, also called an EEG-Based Assessment Tool, or NEBA, to measure the amount of beta and theta waves within the brain. This type of scan is a safe, noninvasive method for screening individuals for ADHD.
In an interview with the person an examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history dating 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 teens and children being screened for ADHD the doctor may have teachers and other professionals who spend long periods of time with the child to complete questionnaires or checklists. They may also ask parents to fill out these forms. Adults are often asked to speak to their spouses, colleagues and other close friends. 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. They will also determine the length of time that symptoms have been present and if they result in impairment at home, in school, at work, or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional must also be able to detect other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep issues. A thorough screening will also examine the person's psychological, social and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn 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 techniques and calming techniques like yoga or meditation. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity and a balanced diet, which can enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, which can aggravate their symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout the adolescent years, and into adulthood. For adults, they can manifest as trouble at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the extent of it. This usually involves a mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual and their parents, spouse or partner and other family members who know him or her well. The doctor may ask the person to list their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she may also use ratings scales and other tests to confirm that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They can also ask about any medical conditions that may be a cause of ADHD symptoms, such as seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication will usually be prescribed to manage the symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children as well as adults. These drugs can cause negative side effects. A person should only use these drugs under the supervision of a doctor and with a prescription. It is also important to inform the doctor about any other medications is taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD have to test a variety of types and dosages before finding one that is suitable for him or her.
Prevention
In certain cases it is possible to reduce exposure to environmental triggers may help to prevent ADHD symptoms. This could include diet, sleeping habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to deal with these triggers, and refer you for further assistance or to a dietitian who can suggest changes in your diet.
Children can also be assisted by maintaining their routines as well as 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 interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should seek out an expert in mental health like psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will take a detailed history, conduct physical examination and review medical records to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe their behavior and apply the standard ratings scales. They will also examine the presence and duration of the core ADHD symptoms, and if they affect a person's life.
A therapist can collaborate with a patient and their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities, which involves the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of limited alternatives. adhd in adults diagnosis can prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep habits and refraining from stimulants. They should also encourage their children to socialize, and make an effort to develop a healthy relationship with their spouse.
School staff can provide valuable information about the learning and behavior of students, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. These decisions are taken by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with support of each other.