How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms and your previous experiences with ADHD. He will also examine your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A significant event like a pregnancy or relationship problems can prompt awareness of the issue. Recognizing the issue is the first step towards managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with being still, waiting their turn, and paying attention at school or in other settings, those who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems in a way that impairs functioning at home, school or work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity have to be present for at least six months, and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental level. They must also be causing significant issues at school, at work or at home, as well as in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a trained health care provider. This may include a physical examination, and also examining for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid or depression. The health care provider will also review the person's family history as well as review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. For children, the questions are usually geared toward their age, and parents are sometimes 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 which is the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the person's current symptoms and past behavior, looking at the ways they affect their social, family and professional life. If possible, he or will examine the person's childhood behavior and school experiences as well.
When evaluating adults, a provider will determine if they suffer from mental health issues that is co-occurring, as well as whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. People with family members with the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If adult adhd diagnoses suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD, they will perform an entire clinical examination. This involves examining the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms over a time of a few weeks. He or she may also inquire about any other conditions they suffer from, and refer them to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person has any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can perform screening and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Some family doctors diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They might recommend adults to undergo a thorough assessment.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam, including assessment of hearing and vision. A specialist might also suggest the use of a brain scanner, also known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the intensity of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.
The examiner will review the person's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical background that goes to his childhood. The doctor will also discuss 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 request teachers and other professionals who spend a great deal of time with children to fill out questionnaires or checklists. He or she might ask parents to fill in the forms. Adults are often asked to speak to their spouses, co-workers and other close family members. They might also wish 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 how long the symptoms have been present for, and whether they cause difficulties at home, school and at work, or in other aspects of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. The professional should also look for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. In addition the thorough examination will also examine the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging the school staff to observe their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patience. They can also teach the child relaxation techniques and techniques for calming like meditation or yoga. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet which can increase their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods high in sugar can aggravate symptoms. Also, they should ensure they get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can persist through the adolescent years, and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties at work or with relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if someone has ADHD, and the severity of it. This evaluation includes an examination of the mind and physical examination and interviews with the individual and his or her parents or spouses, and other people familiar with the person. The doctor may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they impact them. They might also employ rating scales and other tests to determine if the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. He or she will also conduct a medical history of any medical issues which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication is usually prescribed to treat the symptoms. Stimulants are the most common medications used to treat ADHD in children and adults. These medications can cause adverse effects. A person should only use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications is taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants to create dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD need to test different dosages and types of medications before they discover one that works.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In certain cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers from the environment can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers may include diet and sleep habits, family structure and medication. A GP can guide you in identifying ways to manage triggers and recommend a dietitian to get nutrition advice or other assistance.
Children can also be assisted by following the same routines, limiting caffeine and sugar and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Beware of dietary supplements that do not have a scientific backing or interact with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may be suffering from ADHD should consult a mental health professional like psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will go through medical records, conduct physical examinations and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, observe the person's behavior in different settings and use standardized rating scales. The therapist will take into consideration the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as well in determining whether they have an impact on a person's daily life.
A therapist can collaborate with a patient as well as their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities, which involves identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of limited choices. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a secure and loving home with clear expectations and rewards, promoting good sleep habits and avoid stimulants. Parents should also encourage their children to be social and make an effort to build a healthy bond with their child's partner.
School staff can provide valuable information on behavior and learning problems in the student, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. These decisions are made by the student's parents, health provider and teacher with the assistance of the other.