How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any history of ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in life. An event that is significant, such as the birth of a child or a relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the issue. The first step in addressing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to get a diagnosis.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble being still, waiting their turn, and paying attention at schools and other settings, those who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues to a degree that significantly impairs functioning at home, school or work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months, and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental stage. They should be causing major problems at school, at work, home and in relationships.
A trained health care professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to diagnose ADHD. This could include a physical exam, and a look at other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health care professional will also review the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are typically specific to their age and parents may be interviewed too.
The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5 the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the person's present symptoms and past behavior, and look at how they interfere with their family, social and professional lives. If it is possible, he or she will review the person's past behavior as well as school experiences too.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will determine if they suffer from a mental health issue that co-occurs, and if there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a health professional suspects someone is suffering from ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will give the person an exhaustive clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms for a few weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other medical conditions the patient has, and will use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if they have any of the criteria for ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care providers who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness can screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all certified to identify ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They can recommend adults to undergo a thorough evaluation.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam which includes a thorough examination of vision and hearing. Additionally, a doctor may recommend a brain scan called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the concentration of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a non-invasive, safe method for screening individuals for ADHD.
In an interview with the individual the examiner will review the patient's medical and mental history dating back to childhood, and also his current 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).
The doctor may request teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. adhd diagnostic or she might ask parents to fill in the forms. For adults, he or she will often talk to spouses and other close friends and also co-workers, and may want to interview a family member who knows the person from their 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 length of time that symptoms have been present and whether they are causing impairment at home, in the workplace, at school, or in any other area of life.
The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD, such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They must also determine any physical causes of the person's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. In addition an extensive screening will also examine the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging the school staff to watch their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also teach the child relaxation and calming techniques, such as yoga or meditation. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet, which can enhance their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods high in sugar can worsen symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can last through the adolescent years, and into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest in the form of trouble at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an assessment to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and how severe it is. This evaluation usually includes a mental health history as well as a physical examination and interviews with the individual and their parents, a spouse or life partner and others who know him or her well. The provider may ask for a list of the individual's symptoms and how they affect him or her. The doctor may also use rating scales or other tests to determine if the person meets typical criteria for ADHD. They can also ask about any medical conditions that can be a cause of ADHD symptoms, like seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD the medication is usually prescribed to control the symptoms. Stimulants are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These medications can cause side effects. A person should only use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with 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 people suffering from ADHD have to test a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before finding one that is suitable for them.
Prevention
In certain cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers may help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to diet, sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can help you in identifying ways to manage triggers and suggest a dietitian to get nutritional advice or for additional assistance.
Children can also be assisted by keeping their routines the same by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Beware of dietary supplements that do not have scientific backing or may interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should see a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will review medical records, perform an examination of the body and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and use standard ratings scales. The therapist will also look at the duration and presence of core ADHD symptoms, and whether they cause significant impairment in the person's life.
A therapist can collaborate with a patient and their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive skills which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists are able to prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. Parents should also encourage their children to be social and work to build a healthy bond with their partner.
The 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 decisions. The parents of the child and their healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.