How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any history of ADHD. He will also examine your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a relationship crisis is a trigger for awareness of the problem. Getting a diagnosis is the first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Many children have difficulty staying still, waiting their turn, and paying attention at schools and other settings, those who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD suffer from these issues to a degree that significantly affects their functioning at home, school or work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity have to be present for at least 6 months and be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or developmental level. Additionally, they must be causing significant suffering and difficulties at school, home, 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 examination and a review of other conditions which can cause similar symptoms like thyroid disease or depression. The doctor will also look at 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 based on their age and parents may be interviewed.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are outlined in DSM-5, the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The doctor will look at the patient's current symptoms as well as past behavior, looking at the ways they affect their social, family and professional lives. If it is possible the therapist may also review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will consider whether they have a co-occurring mental health condition and will inquire whether the patient has a family history of ADHD. People with family members with ADHD are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a health professional suspects that a patient has ADHD the doctor will provide the patient with a complete clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a diary of their symptoms for several weeks. He or she may also ask the person about any other issues they suffer from, and refer them to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the individual meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or are interested in ADHD can perform screening and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists and nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents, and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
A thorough medical examination that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing, is the first step towards diagnosing ADHD. A specialist might also suggest 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 non-invasive, safe method to screen people for ADHD.
The examiner will review the patient's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical history that dates back to childhood. He will also discuss the person's current 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).
The doctor may ask teachers and others who spend a lot of time with children to fill out questionnaires or checklists. They might also ask parents to complete these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, colleagues and other close acquaintances. They might also want to interview someone who has known 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 also determine the length of time the symptoms have been present and whether they cause problems at school, home or at work, or in other areas of daily life.
diagnosis of adhd should also screen for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. The professional should also look for any physical causes of the person's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. Additionally an extensive screening will also check the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can help them by encouraging school staff to observe the child's progress, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also instruct relaxation and calming methods like meditation or yoga. Regular physical activity and a nutritious diet can improve the ability of a lot of children with ADHD to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can aggravate symptoms. They should also make sure they get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can persist through adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties in their work or relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation consists of a mental history as well as a physical exam and interviews with the individual, his or parents and spouses or partners and other people familiar with the person. The doctor may request a list of the individual's symptoms and how they impact him or her. The doctor may also use rating scales or other tests to determine if the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. The person may inquire about medical conditions that may be similar to ADHD symptoms, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children as well as adults. These medications can trigger negative side effects. A person should only take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with the prescription of a doctor. Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants, causing dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD must try different types and doses of medication before they can find one that works.
Prevention
In certain cases, reducing exposure to triggers from the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to eating habits, sleeping habits, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to manage these triggers and can refer you for additional assistance or a dietitian to suggest changes to your diet.
Children can also be assisted by maintaining their routines, limiting caffeine and sugar, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid supplements for your diet that do not have scientific backing or may be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may be suffering from ADHD should consult an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist for a diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, perform an examination of the body and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe their behavior and use standard ratings scales. They will also look at the severity and frequency of the core ADHD symptoms, and if they result in significant impairments in the life of a person.
A therapist can collaborate with a patient as well as their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also train the patient in metacognitive skills, which involves identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of having fewer alternatives. Psychologists may prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and refraining from stimulants. They should encourage their child to interact with others and build a healthy relationship between them and their partner.
School staff can provide valuable information about the behavior and learning issues of a student however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. Parents and the student's healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.