How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and your history with ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A significant event like a pregnancy or relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in addressing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to receive a diagnosis.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble staying still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools and other settings, those who meet 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 have to be present for at least 6 months and must be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's 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 thorough physical exam and a look for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health professional will also examine the person's family history as well as review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are typically specific to their age and parents are sometimes interviewed too.
The physician will follow 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). The doctor will analyze the person's behavior in the past and present and how it affects their professional, social and family life. If it is possible, the therapist will also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When looking at adults, the physician will take into account whether they suffer from a co-occurring mental health condition and will inquire whether the person has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those with the disorder are more likely to have it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects that someone has ADHD the doctor will conduct a complete clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a diary of their symptoms for a few weeks. The doctor may also ask the person about any other conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient has 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, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all qualified to recognize ADHD. Some family doctors diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They can refer adults for a comprehensive assessment.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is a thorough medical exam that includes an examination of vision and hearing. A doctor may also recommend a brain scanner known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the relative intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This kind of scan can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive and safe manner.
The examiner will review the patient's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical history that dates back to childhood. The doctor will also discuss the person's present symptoms and ways of 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 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 might also ask parents to complete these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, coworkers, and other close acquaintances. They might also wish to interview someone who has been with 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. He or she will determine the length of time that symptoms have been present and whether they cause problems at home, at school, at work, or in any other area of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. They should also search for physical causes, like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also examine the person's psychological, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging the school staff to monitor the child's progress, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach relaxation and calming methods such as yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can enhance the ability of children with ADHD to concentrate and focus. please click the following page and foods high in sugar can cause more symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest as trouble at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation includes a mental history as well as a physical exam and interviews with the individual and his or her parents and spouses or partners and others who are familiar with the person. 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 that the person is in compliance with typical criteria for ADHD. He or she will also conduct a medical note of any medical conditions which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If a person is identified as having ADHD medications will be prescribed to control symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed drugs used to treat ADHD in adults and children. These medications have the potential to cause side consequences, and therefore a person should only take them under a 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 side effects. Many people with ADHD must try different dosages and types of medications before they discover one that works.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In certain cases it is possible to reduce exposure to environmental triggers may help prevent ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, sleep habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can help you find ways to manage these triggers, and refer you for further assistance or to a dietitian to suggest changes in your diet.
Children can also be assisted by keeping their routines the same by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Beware of supplements for your diet that do not have a scientific backing or be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may have ADHD should seek out an expert in mental health like psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will review medical records, perform a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, examine the patient's behavior in various settings and use the standard rating scales. The therapist will take into consideration the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms as well being aware of whether they have an impact on a person's everyday life.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient and their family members to improve parenting, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also train the patient in metacognitive skills which includes identifying and changing "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of having fewer alternatives. Psychologists may prescribe certain medications and work with mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.
Parents can aid by providing a secure, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. Parents must also encourage their child to socialize, and work to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.
School staff can provide valuable information regarding the learning and behavior of students however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. The student's parents and health care provider have to make these decisions with the support of the teacher.