How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A significant event, like pregnancy or a breakup can trigger awareness of the problem. Recognizing the issue is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble staying still, waiting their turn, and paying attention at school or in other settings, children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to a degree that significantly affects their functioning at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity should be present for at least 6 months and be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or development level. They should be causing major problems at work, school or at home, as well as in relationships.
A certified health professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. adult diagnosis of adhd could include a physical examination, and a look at other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. The health care provider will also examine the person's family history and examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions in accordance with their age. parents may be interviewed.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the patient's current symptoms as well as past behavior, and look at the ways they affect their family, social and professional lives. If possible the therapist will review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a provider will look into whether they have mental health issues that is co-occurring, as well as the presence of ADHD in the family. People who have family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects that someone has ADHD, he or she will conduct an exhaustive clinical evaluation which includes reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms for a few weeks. They will also ask about any other medical conditions that the person may have and will refer to the DSM-5 symptom guide to see whether they meet the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can perform screening and determine the severity of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all certified to identify ADHD. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and might refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive evaluation.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is an extensive medical examination which includes a thorough evaluation of vision and hearing. A specialist might suggest a brain scan called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA, to measure the relative concentration of the theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a non-invasive, safe method of screening people for ADHD.
In an interview with the person, the examiner reviews the patient's medical and mental history dating back to childhood, and also the 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 adolescents and children who are being assessed for ADHD, the doctor may ask teachers and other people who spend a lot of time with the child to fill out questionnaires or checklists. They may also ask parents to fill out these forms. For adults, he or she will usually speak to spouses and close friends as well as colleagues and might also 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. The doctor will determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and whether they are causing impairment at home, in school, at work or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she should also check for physical causes for the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep problems. A thorough screening will also look at the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid them by encouraging school staff to monitor the child's progress, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation and calming techniques, such as meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet which will enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can cause more symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can last through adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties at work or with relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD, and the severity of it. The evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state, a physical examination, and interviews with the person, his or parents, spouses or partners, and others who are familiar with him or her. The healthcare provider might request a list of the individual's symptoms and how they affect him or her. They can also use rating scales or other tests to confirm if the person meets typical criteria for ADHD. The person may also inquire about any medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms, for example seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication will usually be prescribed to manage the symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. medications used to treat ADHD in children and adults. These medications can cause negative side effects. A person should only take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or she is taking, because certain drugs can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD must try various types and dosages of medication before they can find one that works.
Prevention
In certain cases, reducing exposure to environmental triggers may help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers may include sleep and diet, family structure and medication. adhd diagnosis in adults can help you in identifying ways to control triggers and suggest a dietitian to get nutritional advice or for additional assistance.
Consult your GP for more details. Try to avoid supplements for your diet that do not have scientific backing or may interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may have ADHD should consult an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get a diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough history, do an examination of the body and review medical records to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, examine the person's behavior in different situations and employ standardized rating scales. The therapist will take into consideration the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as in determining whether they have a significant impact on the person's daily life.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient as well as their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also train the patient in metacognitive skills that include the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of having fewer choices. Psychologists can prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also assist by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep habits and avoiding stimulants. They should encourage their child to be social and develop a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
Staff at the school can provide valuable information on issues with learning and behavior in children however, they aren't qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions must be taken by the child's parents, health care provider, and teacher with the assistance of the other.