How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms and your history with ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A major event, such as pregnancy or a relationship crisis is a trigger for awareness of the issue. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to receive a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble sitting still, waiting for a call, and paying attention at school or other environments. These issues can greatly impact their performance at work, at home or at school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for at least 6 months and must be significantly more than what is typical for the child's age or development level. In addition, they must be causing significant suffering and difficulties at home, school or work, and in relationships.
A trained health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. This may include a physical examination, and a look at other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like thyroid or depression. The health care provider will also look at the person's family history and examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. He will also inquire with 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 in children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5 the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will examine the patient's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If it is possible, he or she will review the person's childhood behavior and school experiences too.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will be able to determine whether they suffer from a co-occurring mental health condition and ask whether the person has any family history of ADHD. People who have family members who suffer from the disorder are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone has ADHD, they will perform an extensive clinical assessment. This includes reviewing the patient's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms over the course of a few weeks. The doctor may also inquire about any other conditions they suffer from, and refer them to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can perform screening and make a diagnosis of the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and might refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is an extensive medical examination which includes a thorough examination of vision and hearing. A specialist may suggest an examination of the brain, called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA, to measure the amount of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a non-invasive, safe method to screen people for ADHD.
In an interview with the person an examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, as well as the present symptoms and strategies for 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 teens and children who are being assessed for ADHD The doctor will likely ask teachers and other people who spend much time with the child to fill out questionnaires or checklists. The doctor may also ask parents fill out these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, coworkers, and other close acquaintances. They may 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. They will also determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and if they result in impairment at home, in school, at work, or in any other area of life.
The mental health professional should also be able to detect other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. He or she should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. In addition the thorough examination will also look at the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children with 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 help teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques, such as yoga or meditation. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular exercise and a healthy diet which can improve their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods high in sugar can aggravate symptoms. Also, they should ensure they get enough sleep.
The signs of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest in the form of trouble at work or in relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD, and the severity of it. This usually involves an examination of the mental health history, a physical exam and interviews with the person, his or her parents, a spouse or partner and other people who know him or her well. The healthcare provider might request the patient to list their symptoms and how they affect them. He or she could also use ratings scales and other tests to verify that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. The doctor will also take a history of any medical problems which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD like thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If a person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication is typically prescribed to control the symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children and adults. They are able to cause adverse consequences, and therefore a person should only take them under a medical supervision and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about the medications you take. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to test a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before finding one that works for them.
The following is a list with preventions.
In get adhd diagnosis I Am Psychiatry of exposure to triggers in the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include diet and sleep habits, family structure and medication. A GP can assist you in finding ways to deal with these triggers, and then refer you for additional assistance or to a dietitian to suggest changes in your diet.
Children can also be assisted by following the same routines as well as limiting sugar and caffeine and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Beware of nutritional supplements that don't have a scientific basis or could interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they have ADHD should consult a mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will review medical records, perform a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe the patient's behavior in various situations and employ standard rating scales. He or she will also look at the severity and frequency of the core ADHD symptoms, and whether they affect the life of a person.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient as well as their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of having fewer choices. Psychologists are able to prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can also aid by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to interact with others and establish a healthy bond with their child's partner.
School staff can provide valuable information on the behavior and learning issues of students however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. Parents and the student's health care provider must make these decisions, with the support of the teacher.