How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and background with ADHD. He will also review your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A major event such as a pregnancy or relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the problem. Recognizing the issue is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble being seated, waiting to be called and paying attention in school or in other situations. These issues can seriously impact their performance at work, home, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months, and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental level. They should also be causing significant problems at school, at work, home and in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a qualified health professional. This may include a thorough physical examination and a check for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The doctor will also look at the person's family history as well as review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents may be interviewed.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5, the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will review the person's current symptoms and past behavior, and look at how they interfere with their family, social and professional life. If possible the therapist may also review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will look into whether they have mental health issues that is co-occurring, as well as whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. People with family members who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects someone is suffering from ADHD, he or she will give the person an extensive clinical assessment which includes reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a diary of their symptoms for some weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other issues the person has and will consult the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine whether they meet the criteria for ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care providers who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all qualified to recognize ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive evaluation.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam that includes an evaluation of vision and hearing. In addition, a specialist might suggest the brain scan, also known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA, to measure the relative concentration of the beta and theta waves in the brain. This kind of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive, secure manner.
The examiner will review the person's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical history dating to his childhood. The doctor will also discuss the person's current symptoms and coping mechanisms. 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 great deal of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. He or she may also ask parents to complete such forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, co-workers 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 determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and whether they are causing problems at home, at the workplace, at school or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional should also screen for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. adhd diagnosis in adults uk should also look for any physical causes for the person's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. A thorough screening will also examine the person's psychological, social and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid with this by encouraging school staff to observe the child closely, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also instruct methods of relaxation and calming such as yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a nutritious diet can improve the ability of many children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods high in sugar can worsen symptoms. Also, they should ensure they get enough rest.
The symptoms of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest as problems at work or in relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine whether a person is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state as well as a physical exam and interviews with the person and his or her parents or spouses, and others who are familiar with the person. The provider may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she may also use rating scales and other tests to confirm that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. They will also take a note of any medical conditions that have a tendency to mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to control symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children as well as adults. These drugs can cause adverse effects. A person should only use these drugs under the supervision of a doctor and with a prescription. Discuss with your doctor all medications you are taking. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants, causing dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD have to try different types and doses of medications before they discover one that works.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In some instances, reducing exposure to environmental triggers may aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. This could include diet, sleep habits, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can help you find ways to control these triggers, and then refer you for further assistance or a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.
Consult your GP for more information. Avoid dietary supplements without research-based backing or that might interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they be suffering from ADHD should consult an expert in mental health such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for an assessment. The doctor will conduct a thorough history, conduct a physical exam and review medical records to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the person's behavior and use the standard ratings scales. He or she will consider the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms, as well as whether they have an impact on the person's daily life.
Most often, therapists will work with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other strategies for organization and instruct the patient in metacognitive strategies, which involve identifying and modifying "thinking distortions" that lead to negative moods and perceptions of a lack of alternatives. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive care.
Parents can also aid by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. They should also encourage their children to be social and work to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.
School staff can provide valuable information about behavior and learning problems in students however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. The student's parents and health care provider have to make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.