How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and history with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A significant event, like pregnancy or a crisis in a relationship can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in addressing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to receive an assessment.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with being still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools or in other settings, kids who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to a degree that significantly impairs functioning at home, school or work. The symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental level. In addition, they must be causing significant distress and problems at school, at home or work, and in relationships.
A qualified health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to determine the presence of ADHD. This could include a thorough physical exam and a look for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider will also review the person's family history and examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. He will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children, the questions are usually specific to their age and parents can be interviewed too.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD for children and adults as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The provider will analyze the person's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If it is possible, he or will look at the person's past behavior as well as school experiences as well.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will consider whether they have a mental health issue that co-occurs, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who suffer from ADHD are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD the doctor will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This involves examining the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a journal every day of their symptoms over a period of a few weeks. They can also inquire about any other medical conditions they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the individual is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness can test and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all certified to diagnose ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and might refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
The first step in identifying ADHD is a thorough medical exam that includes an assessment of hearing and vision. A doctor may also recommend an MRI scanner called an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a non-invasive, safe method to screen people for ADHD.
In an interview with the person an examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, in addition to his current 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 other staff members who spend a lot of time with children to fill out questionnaires or checklists. They may ask parents to fill out such forms. For adults, they is likely to speak to spouses and close friends, as well as colleagues, and may want to interview relatives who know 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 how long the symptoms have been present for, and if they are causing problems at school, home, work or in other areas of life.
The mental health professional should also check for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she must also look for physical causes for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. how to diagnose adhd will also look at the person's psychological, social and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can help 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 help teach methods of relaxation and calming like yoga or meditation. Many children suffering from ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity and a balanced diet, which can help improve their ability to concentrate and focus. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks that can aggravate their symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
The signs of ADHD are present throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties in their work or relationships. A health care provider will perform an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation usually includes an assessment of mental health, a physical exam and interviews with the individual, his or her parents, spouse or life partner and other people who know him or her well. The provider may ask the person to list their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she might also employ rating scales or other tests to confirm that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that can be a cause of ADHD symptoms, like thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication is typically prescribed to control the symptoms. Stimulants are the most common medicines used to treat ADHD in children and adults. These drugs can cause side effects. It is recommended that you take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications are taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD must try several different types and dosages before finding one that works for them.
The following is a list with preventions.
In some instances, reducing exposure to triggers in the environment can help prevent 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 can refer you for additional support or a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid dietary supplements without scientific evidence or that could interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect ADHD should see a mental health professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist to establish a diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough history, do physical examination and look over medical records to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, look at the patient's behavior in various environments and apply the standard rating scales. They will also consider the duration and presence of core ADHD symptoms, and whether they result in significant impairments in the life of a person.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive skills that include the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of choices. Psychologists are able to prescribe certain medications and work with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can aid by providing a secure, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, encouraging a good sleep hygiene, and avoiding stimulants. Parents should also encourage their children to interact with others, and try to build a healthy bond with their partner.
Staff at the school can offer valuable information regarding behavior and learning issues in children, but they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. The parents of the child and their healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.