How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms as well as your background with ADHD. He will also look at your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A major event, such as pregnancy or a crisis in a relationship is a trigger for awareness of the issue. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to get an assessment.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting for a call, and paying attention at school or in other environments. These issues can seriously impact their performance at work, at home, or school. The signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months, and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or developmental level. They should also be causing significant problems at work, school and at home as well as in relationships.
A qualified health care professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to determine the presence of ADHD. This may include a physical exam and also examining for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health professional may also examine the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents may be interviewed.
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 patient's current symptoms as well as past behavior, looking at how they impact their social, family and professional lives. If possible the therapist may also review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When conducting an assessment of adults, a doctor will look into whether they have mental health issues that co-occurs, and the presence of ADHD in the family. adhd diagnosis adults uk who have family members with the disorder are more prone to develop it.
If the health care provider suspects that a patient has ADHD the doctor will conduct an exhaustive clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a diary of their symptoms for several weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other medical conditions the person has and will consult the DSM-5 symptom guide to see if they have any of the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have a keen interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and make a diagnosis of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all able to identify ADHD. Some family doctors diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They may refer adults for a comprehensive evaluation.
The first step in diagnosing 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 relative 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 manner.
In an interview with the person an examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric history dating 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).
The doctor may request teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents to fill out the forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, co-workers and other close family members. They might 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 how long the symptoms have been present and whether they cause difficulties at home, school, work or in other areas of life.
The mental health professional must also look for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. The professional should also look for any physical causes for the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep issues. Additionally the thorough examination will also examine the person's emotional, social and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can help with this by encouraging school staff to watch the child's progress, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach relaxation and calming methods such as yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can enhance the ability of children suffering from ADHD to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods high in sugar can aggravate symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
The symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest in the form of difficulties at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if a person has ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation consists of an examination of the mind, a physical examination, and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents or spouses, and other people who are familiar with the person. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they affect him or her. The doctor could also use ratings scales and other tests to confirm that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. The person may also ask about any medical conditions that may be similar to ADHD symptoms, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If a person is diagnosed as having ADHD, medication will be prescribed to control symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. medications used to treat ADHD in adults and children. These medications have the potential to cause side negative effects, therefore one should only use them under a doctor's supervision and with a prescription. Discuss with your doctor all medications you are taking. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD must try different dosages and types of medication before they find one that works.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In certain cases, reducing exposure to environmental triggers can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers could include sleeping and eating habits, family structure and medication. A GP can help you on how to control triggers, and can refer you to a dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
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). Try to avoid supplements for your diet 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 such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for an assessment. The doctor will take a detailed medical history, perform physical examination and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the person's behavior and use standardized ratings scales. The therapist will assess the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms as well as whether they have an impact on the person's daily life.
A therapist can collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive abilities, which involves identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of having fewer options. Psychologists may prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can also aid by providing a stable and loving home with clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoiding stimulants. They should also encourage their children to interact with others, and make an effort to build a healthy bond with their child's partner.
The staff at the school may provide valuable information about issues with learning and behavior in the child however, they aren't competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. The parents of the child and their health care provider have to make these decisions with the support of the teacher.