How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and your previous experiences with ADHD. He will also examine your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A major event such as the birth of a child or a relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to receive an assessment.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble staying still, waiting their turn, and paying attention at schools and other settings, kids who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to the extent that impairs functioning at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental stage. They must also be causing significant issues at work, school 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 could include a physical exam and checking for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like depression or thyroid disease. The doctor will also examine the person's family history as well as review medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, he will ask the patient questions about the symptoms they are experiencing. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents can be interviewed.
The physician will follow the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults, which are outlined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will look at the person's current symptoms and previous behavior, focusing on how they impact their family, social, and professional lives. If possible, he will examine the person's past behavior as well as school experiences too.
When conducting an assessment of adults, a doctor will consider whether they have a mental health condition that co-occurs, and the presence of ADHD in the family. People who have family members who suffer from the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone has ADHD the doctor will conduct a full clinical evaluation. This involves examining the patient's symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms over the course of several weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other conditions the patient has and will refer to the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine if they have any of the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all qualified to recognize ADHD. Some family doctors diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They can refer adults for a comprehensive assessment.
A thorough medical examination, including an assessment of sight and hearing is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. Additionally, adhd diagnosed may recommend an examination of the brain, called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid, or NEBA to measure the amount of beta and theta waves within the brain. This type of scan can be used to screen for ADHD in a non-invasive, safe way.
In an interview with the individual an examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric background dating back to childhood, as well as his present 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 teens and children who are being assessed 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. adhd diagnosis adults uk or she might request parents to fill out these forms. For adults, he or she is likely to talk to spouses and other close friends and also co-workers, and may want to interview relatives who know 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. They will also determine the length of time the symptoms have been present for, and if they are causing impairment at home, school or at work, or in other areas of daily 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 must also search for physical causes such as thyroid problems or sleep disorders. In addition the thorough examination will also look at the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid with this by encouraging school staff to observe the child closely, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques like yoga or meditation. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular exercise and a healthy diet, which will improve their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can worsen their symptoms. They should also ensure they get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can persist through adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. A doctor will conduct an assessment to determine if a person has ADHD, and the severity of it. This evaluation usually includes a mental health history, a physical exam and interviews with the person as well as his or her parents, a spouse or a life partner, and others who know the person well. The provider may ask for a list of the individual's symptoms and how they impact him or her. The doctor may also use rating scales and other tests to determine if the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. The person may inquire about medical conditions that could be a cause of ADHD symptoms, like thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication is usually prescribed to manage the symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children as well as adults. These medications have the potential to cause side effects, so a person should only take them under a doctor's supervision and with a prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications is taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages of medication before finding one that works for him or her.
The following is a list of preventions.
In some instances it is possible to reduce exposure to environmental triggers can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. This could include diet, sleeping habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to deal with these triggers and can refer you for additional support or to a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.
Children can also be assisted by maintaining their routines by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Avoid taking supplements that do not have scientific evidence or that could be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should consult a mental health professional like psychiatrist or psychologist, to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, look at the person's behavior in different environments and apply standardized rating scales. They will also examine the duration and presence of the core ADHD symptoms, and whether they result in significant impairments in the person's life.
Usually, a therapist will work with the patient and family to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other strategies for organization, and train the patient on metacognitive techniques that focus on identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of options. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.
Parents can assist by providing a secure, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to be social and develop a healthy relationship between them and their loved ones.
School staff can provide valuable information about behavior and learning problems in a student, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. Parents and the student's health care provider must make these decisions, with the support of the teacher.