How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
A lot of people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A significant event, like pregnancy or a breakup, triggers awareness of the problem. Recognizing the issue is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with staying still, waiting for their turn, and paying attention at school or in other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues to a degree that significantly affects their functioning at home, in school or at work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for at least six months and must be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or developmental level. They must also be causing significant issues at school, at work or at home, as well as in relationships.
A trained health care professional must conduct a medical evaluation to determine the presence of ADHD. This could include a thorough physical examination and a review of other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to thyroid disease or depression. The health care provider will also review the family history of the patient and examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. Additionally, he will ask the patient questions about the symptoms they are experiencing. For children the questions are generally specific to their age and parents are sometimes interviewed as well.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will examine the patient's behavior in the past and present and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If possible, the therapist will also review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will consider whether they have mental health issues that is co-occurring, as well as whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves.
If a health care provider suspects someone has ADHD the doctor will conduct an entire clinical examination. This includes reviewing the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a journal every day of their symptoms over the course of a few weeks. He or she may also inquire about any other conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient has any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or are interested in ADHD can perform screening and determine the severity of the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.
A thorough medical examination, including an assessment of sight and hearing is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A specialist may also suggest the use of a brain scanner, also known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the relative intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a non-invasive, safe method to screen people for ADHD.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history including his medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood. The examiner will also review the person's 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 will ask teachers and others who spend a lot of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. The doctor might also ask parents to complete such forms. For adults, they will often speak to spouses and close friends as well as colleagues and might also 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. adhd diagnosis uk adult will also determine for how long the symptoms have been present for, and whether they cause problems at school, home, work or in other aspects of daily life.
The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They should also look for any physical causes for the individual's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep problems. In addition an extensive screening will also look at the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging school staff to watch their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming, such as yoga or meditation. Many children suffering from ADHD can benefit from regular physical exercise and a balanced diet, which will improve their ability to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, as they can make their symptoms worse. They must also get enough rest.
The symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. A health care provider will conduct an assessment to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation usually includes a mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual, his or her parents, a spouse or life partner and other people who know him or her well. The healthcare provider might ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she can also utilize rating scales or other tests to determine if the person meets typical criteria for ADHD. He or she may also inquire about any medical conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms, such as thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. medications used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These drugs can cause side effects. One should only take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with the prescription of a doctor. It is also important to inform the doctor about any other medications he or she is taking, because certain drugs can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD must try several different types and dosages of medication before finding the one that is right for them.
The following is a list with preventions.
In certain cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers can aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. This could include diet, sleeping habits, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control these triggers and can refer you for additional assistance or a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.
Children can also be helped by maintaining their routines by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without research-based backing or that might interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may have ADHD should seek out a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for a diagnosis. The doctor will conduct a thorough history, do a physical exam and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe their behavior and apply the standard ratings scales. He or she will also consider the presence and duration of the core ADHD symptoms, and whether they cause significant impairment in the life of a person.
Most often, therapists will work with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other organizational strategies and educate the patient in metacognitive techniques that involve the identification and modification of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of options. Psychologists may prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can assist by offering a safe family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an excellent sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to socialize with others and establish a healthy bond between them and their loved ones.
School staff can provide valuable information about the behavior and learning issues of students however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. Parents and the student's health care provider must make these decisions with the help of the teacher.