How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms as well as your previous experiences with ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. A significant event like the birth of a child or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the issue. Finding a diagnosis is the first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting for a call and paying attention in school or other situations. These issues can greatly impact their performance at home, work or at school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should be present for at least 6 months and must be greater than what is expected for the child's age and development level. Additionally, they should be causing significant pain and problems at school, at home or work, and in relationships.
A qualified health care professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to determine the presence of ADHD. This could include a thorough physical examination and a check for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider will also review the person's family history as well as review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents can be interviewed.
The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will review the patient's current symptoms as well as past behavior, looking at how they impact their family, social, and professional lives. If possible, he will examine the person's childhood behavior and school experiences as well.
When conducting an assessment of adults, a doctor will consider whether they have a mental health condition that is co-occurring, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. People who have family members with the disorder are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a doctor suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD, they will perform a full clinical evaluation. This will include analyzing the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms over a period of a few weeks. They will also ask about any other medical conditions that the person may have, and will use the DSM-5 symptom guide to see if they have any of the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can perform screening and make a diagnosis of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner and psychiatrists are all certified to identify ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough assessment.
The first step in identifying ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam which includes a thorough examination of vision and hearing. A specialist might also suggest an MRI scanner called an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the relative intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a safe, noninvasive method of screening people for ADHD.
In an interview with the person, the examiner reviews the person's medical and psychiatric history dating back to childhood, in addition to his present symptoms and coping strategies. 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 teens and children being evaluated for ADHD the doctor may request teachers and other individuals who spend long periods of time with the child to fill in checklists or questionnaires. He or she might ask parents to fill in such 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. He or she will determine how long symptoms have been present and whether they are causing impairment at home, in school, at work or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. He or she must also look for physical causes, like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also examine the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging school staff to watch their child closely, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also teach the child relaxation and calming techniques, such as yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can improve the ability of a lot of children with ADHD 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 last through adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the extent of it. This evaluation includes an examination of the mind and physical examination and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents and spouses or partners and other people familiar with the person. The doctor may 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. The person may also ask about any medical conditions that may be a cause of ADHD symptoms, such as thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication will usually be prescribed to control the symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children as well as adults. These drugs are likely to cause adverse negative effects, therefore one should only take them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications he or is taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD must try several different types and dosages of medication before they find the one that is right for them.
Prevention
In some cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers in the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. This could include diet, sleep habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can guide you on how to control triggers, and can recommend a dietitian for nutritional advice or for additional assistance.
Children can also be assisted by following the same routines by limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Avoid how to diagnose adhd that don't have a scientific basis or could be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should see an expert in mental health like psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will look over medical records, perform physical examinations and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, examine the patient's behavior in various settings and use standard rating scales. They will also examine the duration and presence of the core ADHD symptoms, and if they cause significant impairment in a person's life.
A therapist can collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities, which involves the identification and correction of "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 a comprehensive care.
Parents can aid by providing a secure family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. They should also encourage their children to be social and try to build a healthy bond with their child's partner.
School staff can provide valuable information about behavior and learning problems in the student However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. Parents and the student's health care provider have to make these decisions with the support of the teacher.