How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and history with ADHD. He will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A significant event, like 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 obtain a diagnosis.
Characteristics
While many children have trouble sitting still, waiting for their turn, and paying attention at schools and other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to a degree that significantly hinders their performance at home, in school or at work. The signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months, and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental level. In addition, they must be causing significant suffering and problems at home, school or work, and also in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a certified health professional. This could include a thorough physical exam and a check for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to thyroid disease or depression. The health care provider may also look over the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. In addition, he will interview the person about his or her symptoms. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents can be interviewed as well.
The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are outlined in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will analyze the person's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If possible the therapist may also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When looking at adults, the physician will take into account whether or not they have a co-occurring mental health issue and ask whether the patient has a family history of ADHD. People who have family members who suffer from ADHD are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a doctor suspects someone may have ADHD the doctor will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This involves examining the patient's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily log of their symptoms over a time of several weeks. He or she may also ask the person about any other medical conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person has any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care providers who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness can test and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner and psychiatrists are all able to identify ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They might send adults to a full assessment.
adhd diagnosis for adults to diagnose ADHD is a thorough medical exam that includes an examination of vision and hearing. A specialist might also suggest an MRI scanner called an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive and safe method.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history, including his medical and psychiatric history that dates back to childhood. He will also discuss the individual's current symptoms as well as 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 will request teachers and other professionals who spend a great deal of time with children to complete questionnaires or checklists. They may also ask parents complete these forms. For adults, they will often discuss marriage with spouses and other close friends, as well as co-workers and might also interview someone from the family 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 how long symptoms have been present and if they result in impairment at home, in the workplace, at school or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They should also search for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. Additionally the thorough examination will also examine the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging school staff to watch their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patience. They can also teach the child relaxation and calming techniques like yoga or meditation. Many children with ADHD benefit from regular exercise and a healthy diet, which can help increase their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can aggravate their symptoms. They must also get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout the adolescent years, and into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest in the form of problems at work or in relationships. A doctor will perform an evaluation to determine whether a person has ADHD and how severe it is. This evaluation usually includes an examination of the mental health history, a physical exam and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents, a spouse or partner and other family members who know him or her well. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. He or she can also use rating scales and other tests to determine whether the person meets the typical criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that can be similar to ADHD symptoms, such as seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If a person is diagnosed as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children and adults. These medications can cause negative side effects. A person should only take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with the prescription of a doctor. Discuss with your doctor all medications you are taking. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to try various types and dosages of medication before they can find one that works.
Prevention
In certain cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can include diet and sleep habits as well as family structure and medications. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control these triggers and can refer you for additional support or to a dietitian to suggest changes to your diet.
Children can also be helped by maintaining their routines as well as limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no research-based backing or that might interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should visit a mental health professional for diagnosis, such as psychiatrist or psychologist, to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough history, do an examination of the body and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, observe the person's behavior in different situations and employ standardized rating scales. They will also examine the severity and frequency of the core ADHD symptoms, and if they result in significant impairments in the life of a person.
A therapist may work with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities, which involves the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of having fewer choices. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive care.
Parents can also aid by providing a secure and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoid stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to interact with others and develop a healthy relationship between them and their loved ones.
School staff can provide valuable information regarding the behavior and learning issues of the student, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. Parents and the student's healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.