How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any history of ADHD. He will also look at your family history.
A lot of people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. A significant event, like pregnancy or a breakup can trigger awareness of the issue. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to receive a diagnosis.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty waiting to be called and paying attention in school or in other situations. These problems can significantly affect their functioning at home, work, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should be present for at least six months and must be greater than what is expected for the child's age and development level. In addition, they must be causing significant suffering and difficulties at home, school or work, and in relationships.
A certified health professional will conduct a clinical assessment to determine the presence of ADHD. This could include a thorough physical exam and a review of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms like thyroid disease or depression. The health care professional will also look over the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, the doctor will interview the person about his or her symptoms. For children, the questions are usually targeted towards their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed as well.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults and children that are described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will look at the person's present symptoms and previous behavior, focusing on how they interfere with their family, social, and professional life. If possible, he or will examine the person's past behavior as well as school experiences, too.
When evaluating adults, a provider will determine if they suffer from a mental health condition that co-occurs, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who have the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves.
If a health professional suspects that someone has ADHD, he or she will give the person an extensive clinical assessment that includes a review of their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily diary of their symptoms for a few weeks. The doctor may also ask the person about any other issues 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 have a specialization in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all certified to identify ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They might recommend adults to undergo a thorough assessment.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is a thorough medical exam, including assessment of hearing and vision. In addition, a specialist might suggest the brain scan, also known as an EEG-Based Assessment Tool, or NEBA, to measure the relative concentration of the theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive and safe way.
In an interview with the individual, the examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric background dating back to childhood, in addition to 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).
For children and teens who are being assessed for ADHD the doctor may ask teachers and other people who spend a lot of time with the child to fill in checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents to fill out these forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, colleagues and other close friends. They may 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. The doctor will also determine for how long the symptoms have been present, and if they are causing difficulties at home, school and at work, or in other areas of daily life.
The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she should also check for physical causes of the person's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. A thorough examination will also look at the person's emotional, social and family history.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid them by encouraging school staff to watch the child with a keen eye, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach methods of relaxation and calming, such as yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can boost the ability of a lot of children suffering from ADHD to concentrate and focus. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, which can aggravate their symptoms. adhd diagnose should also get enough sleep.
The symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence and into adulthood. For adults, they can manifest as trouble at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an assessment to determine if someone has ADHD and the extent of it. This evaluation usually includes a mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents, a spouse or partner and others who know him or her well. The provider may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. They can also use rating scales and other tests to confirm that the person is in compliance with typical criteria for ADHD. They can inquire about medical conditions that may be similar to ADHD symptoms, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If a person is diagnosed with ADHD the medication is usually prescribed to treat the symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed drugs used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These drugs are likely to cause side negative effects, therefore one should only use them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications he or she is taking, because certain medications can interact with stimulants to create dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD must try various types and dosages of medication before they can find one that works.
Prevention
In certain cases, reducing exposure to triggers from the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers could include diet and sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can help you find ways to deal with these triggers, and refer you for additional support or a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.
Children can also be assisted by maintaining their routines by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without scientific backing or that may interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should visit an expert in mental health, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough history, do physical examination and review medical records to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, look at the patient's behavior in various settings and use standardized rating scales. The therapist will take into consideration the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as as whether they have an impact on the person's daily life.
A therapist can collaborate with a patient as well as their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive skills that include identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of limited alternatives. Psychologists are able to prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a stable and loving home with clear expectations and rewards, promoting good sleep hygiene and avoiding stimulants. They should encourage their child to interact with others and establish a healthy bond between them and their partner.
Staff at the school can provide valuable information about the behavior and learning challenges of the child, but they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. The parents of the child and their health care provider must make these decisions with the support of the teacher.