How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A major event such as pregnancy or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to receive a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting for a call and focusing at school or other settings. These issues can seriously affect their functioning at work, home, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for a minimum of 6 months and be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's age or developmental level. They must be causing major problems at work, school or at home, as well as in relationships.
A qualified health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. diagnosis of adhd could include a physical examination, and a look at other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health professional will also look at the person's family history and examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, he will interview the person about their symptoms. For children the questions are generally specific to their age and parents are sometimes interviewed as well.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults that are described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). He or she will examine the patient'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, too.
When conducting an assessment of adults, a doctor will determine if they suffer from a mental health condition that co-occurs, and the presence of ADHD in the family. People with family members who suffer from ADHD are more likely to have it themselves.
If a health care provider suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct an entire clinical examination. This includes reviewing the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms over a time of several weeks. They will also inquire about any other issues the person has and will consult the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine whether they meet the criteria for ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care providers who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness can screen and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Family physicians may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive evaluation.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is a thorough medical exam that includes an evaluation of vision and hearing. A doctor may also recommend a brain scanner known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a safe, noninvasive method for screening individuals for ADHD.
In an interview with the person an examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history going 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 children and teens being screened for ADHD The doctor may have teachers and other professionals who spend long periods of time with the child to fill in checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents fill out these forms. For adults, they will usually talk to spouses and other close friends and also co-workers, and may want to interview a family member 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 also determine how long the symptoms have been present for, and whether they are causing difficulties at home, school and at work, or in other aspects of daily life.
The mental health professional should also be able to detect other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. The professional must also determine any physical causes for the person's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep issues. A thorough screening will also examine the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging the school staff to observe the child with a keen eye, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also instruct methods of relaxation and calming, such as yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can boost the ability of children with ADHD to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods high in sugar can aggravate symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
The symptoms of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest as problems at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation usually includes an examination of the mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents, spouse or partner and other people who know the person well. The provider may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. He or she can also use rating scales and other tests to confirm whether the person meets the standard criteria for ADHD. diagnosis of adhd or she will also take a note of any medical conditions that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication will usually be prescribed to control the symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children as well as adults. They are able to cause side negative effects, therefore one should only take them under physician's supervision and a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or is taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous adverse effects. Many individuals with ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages before they find the one that is right for them.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In some cases the reduction of exposure to triggers in the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers may include sleep and diet as well as family structure and medications. A GP can guide you on how to control triggers, and can refer you to a dietitian to get nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be assisted by keeping their routines the same 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 evidence or that could be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who believe they be suffering from ADHD should see an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get a diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, perform a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, examine the patient's behavior in various settings and use standard rating scales. The therapist will assess the intensity and duration of the ADHD-related symptoms, as well being aware of whether they have an impact on a person's everyday life.
Therapists may work with a patient and their family members to improve parenting, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive abilities that include the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of choices. Psychologists can prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can assist by providing a secure and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an appropriate sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. Parents should also encourage their children to interact with others, and make an effort to establish a healthy relationship with their spouse.
The staff at the school may offer valuable information regarding the behavior and learning challenges of a child however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. Parents and the student's health care provider have to make these decisions, with the support of the teacher.