How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A major event such as the birth of a child or a relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the issue. Recognizing the issue is the first step towards managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with staying still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools or in other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to a degree that significantly hinders their performance at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity should be present for at least 6 months and must be more than what is typical for the child's age or development level. They should also be causing significant issues at school, at work and at home as well as in relationships.
A certified health professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. This could include a thorough physical exam and a check for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health care provider will also look at the family history of the patient and review medical, psychiatric and academic records. Additionally, he will ask the patient questions about his or her symptoms. Children are asked questions in accordance with their age. parents can be interviewed.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will analyze the person's behavior in the past and present and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If possible, he or will look at the person's childhood behavior and school experiences, too.
When evaluating adults, a provider will consider whether they have a mental health condition that is co-occurring, as well as if there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those with ADHD are more likely to have it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects that someone has ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will provide the patient with a complete clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily diary of their symptoms for some weeks. They will also inquire about any other medical conditions the patient has, and will use the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine whether they meet the criteria for ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
A thorough medical exam which includes a thorough assessment of sight and hearing is the first step towards diagnosing ADHD. In addition, a specialist may suggest the brain scan, also known as an EEG-Based Assessment Tool, or NEBA to measure the amount of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.
In an interview with the person the examiner will review the patient's medical and mental history dating back to childhood, and also his current 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 adolescents 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 complete these forms. For adults, he or she is likely to talk to spouses and other close friends as well as colleagues, and may want to interview a family member who knows the person from their 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 also determine for how long the symptoms have been present and whether they cause problems at school, home or at work, or in other aspects of daily life.
The mental health professional should also be able to detect other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. adhd diagnosing Iampsychiatry should also search for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. In addition an extensive screening will also check the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can support this by encouraging school staff to watch their child closely, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and techniques for calming, such as meditation or yoga. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can boost the ability of a lot of children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks that can worsen their symptoms. They must also get enough rest.
The symptoms of ADHD are present throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties in their work or relationships. A doctor will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD, and the severity of it. The evaluation includes a mental history, a physical examination, and interviews with the individual, his or parents or spouses, and others who are familiar with him or her. The doctor may request a list of the person's symptoms and how they affect them. He or she can also utilize rating scales or other tests to confirm if the person meets typical criteria for ADHD. He or she may inquire about medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms, such as seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD A medication is typically prescribed to treat the symptoms. Stimulants are the most common medicines used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These medications have the potential to cause side effects, so a person should only use them under a medical supervision and with a prescription. Discuss with your doctor all medications you are taking. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD must try several different types and dosages of medication before settling on the one that is right for him or her.
Prevention
In some instances it is possible to reduce exposure to environmental triggers can aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers could include sleep and diet as well as family structure and medications. A GP can assist you in finding ways to deal with these triggers, and refer you for additional assistance or to a dietitian to suggest changes to your diet.
Children can also be helped by maintaining their routines as well as limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific backing or that may interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should see an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will go through medical records, conduct a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and apply standard ratings scales. They will also examine the duration and presence of core ADHD symptoms, and whether they affect the life of a person.
A therapist can work with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive skills which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of limited options. Psychologists are able to prescribe certain medications and work with mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.
Parents can assist by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. They should encourage their child to socialize with others and build a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
School staff can provide valuable information regarding the learning and behavior of a student however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. These decisions must be taken by the student's parents, health care provider and teacher with the assistance of the other.