How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. He will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. An event that is significant, such as a pregnancy or relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. Recognizing the issue is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Many children have difficulty sitting still, waiting their turn, and paying attention at school or in other settings, kids who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD suffer from these issues to the extent that hinders their performance at home, school or work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for a minimum of 6 months and must be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age and development level. They should also be causing significant problems at work, school, home and in relationships.
A qualified health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. This could include a physical exam, and also examining for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like thyroid or depression. The health care professional will also review the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. In addition, the doctor will ask the patient questions about his or her symptoms. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed too.
The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will examine the patient's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If possible the therapist will examine the person's school and childhood experiences.
When conducting an assessment of adults, a doctor will consider whether they have mental health issues that is co-occurring, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it.
If a doctor suspects someone may have ADHD the doctor will conduct an entire clinical examination. This includes reviewing the patient's symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily log of their symptoms over a time of a few weeks. He or she may also ask the person about any other conditions they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient has any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and determine the severity of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all able to recognize ADHD. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents and might refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is an extensive medical examination, including assessment of hearing and vision. Additionally, a doctor may suggest a brain scan called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the concentration of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scan can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive, secure way.
In an interview with the individual the examiner will review the person's medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, in addition to his present 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 questionnaires or checklists. The doctor might also ask parents to complete such forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, co-workers and other close friends. They might also wish 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 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 be able to detect other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. The professional should also look for any physical causes for the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep problems. A thorough examination will also examine the person's psychological, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid them by encouraging the school staff to monitor the child with a keen eye, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach the child relaxation techniques and techniques for calming like meditation or yoga. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet which can enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks that can make their symptoms worse. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist through adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and how severe it is. The evaluation typically includes an examination of the mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual and their parents, a spouse or a life partner, and others who know him or her well. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's 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 that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD A medication is typically prescribed to treat the symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medicines used to treat ADHD in adults and children. These drugs are likely to cause adverse consequences, and therefore a person should only take them under a medical supervision and with a prescription. It is also important to inform the doctor about any other medications he or she is taking, because certain drugs can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD have to try different dosages and types of medication before they can find one that works.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In some instances, reducing exposure to environmental triggers can aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers could include sleep and diet, family structure and medication. A GP can assist you in finding ways to manage these triggers, and refer you for additional assistance or to a dietitian who can suggest changes to your diet.
Consult read here for more information. Try to avoid nutritional supplements that don't have a scientific backing or interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect ADHD should consult an expert in mental health like psychiatrist or psychologist, for diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct an examination of the body and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out any other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe the patient's behavior and use standard ratings scales. They will also examine the duration and presence of core ADHD symptoms, and if they affect the person's life.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient as well as their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive skills that include identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of having fewer options. Psychologists may prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can help by providing a secure, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, promoting an excellent sleep hygiene and avoiding stimulants. They should encourage their child to socialize with others and develop a healthy relationship between them and their partner.
Staff at the school can provide valuable information on issues with learning and behavior in children however, they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. The parents of the child and their health care provider have to make these decisions with the assistance of the teacher.