How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms and previous experiences with ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A significant event like a pregnancy or relationship problems can prompt awareness of the issue. Recognizing the issue is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulties with waiting for a call and focusing at school or other situations. These issues can seriously impact their performance at work, at home, or school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should have been present for at minimum six months and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental level. Additionally, they must be causing significant pain and problems at school, at home or work, and also in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a qualified health professional. This could include a thorough physical exam and a check for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health care professional will also review the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. Additionally, he will talk to the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents may be interviewed too.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are outlined in DSM-5 the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will examine the patient's past and current behavior and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If possible, the therapist will also examine the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will look into whether they have a mental health issue that co-occurs, and the presence of ADHD in the family. People who have family members with the disorder are more likely to develop it.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone has ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This includes reviewing the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms over the course of several weeks. They will also ask about any other issues that the person may have and will consult the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine whether they meet the criteria for ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all qualified to recognize ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough assessment.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam, including assessment of hearing and vision. In addition, a specialist may recommend a brain scan called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the relative concentration of the beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a safe, noninvasive method for screening individuals for ADHD.
The examiner will review the patient's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical background that goes to his childhood. The examiner will also review the individual's current symptoms as well as 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 may ask teachers and others who spend a lot of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents to complete these forms. For adults, they is likely to talk to spouses and other close friends, as well as co-workers and may also interview someone from the family who knows the person from 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 duration for which symptoms have been present and whether they cause problems at home, at school, at work, or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. The professional should also search for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also look at the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can help with this by encouraging school staff to observe the child's progress, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach methods of relaxation and calming, such as yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can enhance the ability of many children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. Sugary foods and beverages can worsen symptoms. adhd diagnosed must also get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can last through adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties at work or with relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state and physical examination and interviews with the person, his or parents and spouses or partners and other people who are familiar with him or her. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. They could also use ratings scales and other tests to confirm that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. The doctor will also collect a history of any medical problems which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication will usually be prescribed to manage the symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children as well as adults. These drugs are likely to cause adverse effects, so a person should only take them under doctor's supervision and with a prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications he or is taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants to create dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD must try different types and doses of medication before they can find one that works.
Prevention
In some cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers may aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. This could include eating habits, sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in identifying ways to control triggers and recommend a dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be assisted by following the same routines by 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 be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who believe they be suffering from ADHD should see an expert in mental health such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for a diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough history, do a physical exam and review 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 the standard ratings scales. The therapist will take into consideration the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms, as being aware of whether they have a significant impact on a person's daily life.
Most often, therapists will work with the patient and family to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other organizational strategies and educate the patient in metacognitive strategies, which involve identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of choices. Psychologists may prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can assist by providing a stable family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an appropriate sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to be social and establish a healthy bond between them and their loved ones.
School staff can provide valuable information on the behavior and learning issues of the student However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. These decisions must be taken by the child's parents, health care provider, and teacher with the assistance of the other.