How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and your background with ADHD. He will also look at your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A major event such as the birth of a child or a relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the issue. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to get an assessment.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting to be called and focusing at school or in other situations. These issues can seriously impact their performance at home, work, or school. The symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity have to be present for at least six months and be more prominent than is normal for their age or development level. They should also be causing significant problems at school, work or at home, as well as in relationships.
A qualified health care professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to determine the presence of ADHD. This may include a physical exam and checking for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. diagnose adhd 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 are also able to be interviewed.
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 examine the patient's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If possible, he or she will review the person's past behavior as well as school experiences as well.
When looking at adults, the physician will be able to determine whether they suffer from a co-occurring mental health issue and will inquire if the person has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those who have the disorder are more prone to develop it.
If a health professional suspects that someone has ADHD, he or she will give the person an exhaustive clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a diary of their symptoms for some weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other issues that the person may have and will refer to the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine whether they meet the characteristics of ADHD.
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 practitioner psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all certified to recognize ADHD. Family doctors may diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They might refer adults for a comprehensive evaluation.
A thorough medical examination which includes a thorough assessment of sight and hearing, is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A specialist might suggest a brain scan known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid, or NEBA, to measure the amount of theta and beta waves in the brain. This kind of scan can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive and secure way.
In an interview with the individual, the examiner reviews the person's medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, in addition to the 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).
For adolescents and children being evaluated for ADHD the doctor may have teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with the child to fill in questionnaires or checklists. They may also ask parents to fill out the forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, coworkers, 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. The doctor will determine how long symptoms have been present and whether they are causing problems at home, at school, at work or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional should also check for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. He or she should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. A thorough screening will also examine the person's social, emotional and family background.
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 showing flexible and patience. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques, such as meditation or yoga. Many children suffering from ADHD can benefit from regular physical exercise and a healthy diet, which will increase their ability to focus and concentrate. Sugary foods and beverages can aggravate symptoms. They should also make sure they get enough sleep.
The symptoms of ADHD are present throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. how to diagnose adhd will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation typically includes an examination of the mental health history as well as a physical examination and interviews with the individual, his or her parents, a spouse or a life partner, and other people who know the person well. The healthcare provider might request the patient 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. He or she will also take a history of any medical issues that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD like seizures and thyroid disorders.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication is usually prescribed to manage the symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children and adults. These drugs are likely to cause adverse effects, so a person should only use them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. Discuss with your doctor any medications you are taking. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to test a variety of types and dosages of medication before settling on one that is suitable for them.
Prevention
In some cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers may aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. These can include eating habits, routines for sleeping and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can guide you in finding ways to control triggers and refer you to a dietitian to get nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be helped by maintaining their routines, limiting caffeine and sugar, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without scientific evidence or that could interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may be suffering from ADHD should seek out a mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will review medical records, perform physical examinations and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe their behavior and use standard ratings scales. The therapist will assess the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms, as being aware of whether they have a significant impact on the person's daily life.
Usually, a therapist will work with the family and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other organizational strategies, and train the patient in metacognitive techniques that involve identifying and modifying "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions of limited options. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also aid by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoid stimulants. They should also encourage their children to be social and try to establish a healthy relationship with their spouse.
The staff at the school can provide valuable information on issues with learning and behavior in a child however, they aren't competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. The student's parents and health care provider must make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.