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How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any history of ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in life. A major event, such as pregnancy or a breakup is a trigger for awareness of the problem. Getting a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with staying still, waiting their turn and paying attention in schools or in other settings, children who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems in a way that hinders their performance at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months, and be more prominent than is normal for their age or development level. In addition, they must be causing significant suffering and issues at home, school or work, and also in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a trained health care provider. This could include a physical exam and a look at other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health care provider may also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents may be interviewed too.
The physician will follow the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults and children, which are outlined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will examine the patient's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it affects their professional, social and family life. If it is possible, the therapist will also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When looking at adults, the physician will be able to determine whether or not they suffer from a co-occurring mental health condition and will inquire whether the person has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those who have the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects that someone has ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will provide the patient with an extensive clinical assessment which includes reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily diary of their symptoms for a few weeks. He or she may also inquire about any other conditions they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness can test and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They can recommend adults to undergo a thorough assessment.
A thorough medical examination, including an assessment of sight and hearing, is the first step in diagnosing ADHD. A specialist may suggest the brain scan, also known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the concentration of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a non-invasive, safe method for screening individuals for ADHD.
In an interview with the individual the examiner will review the person's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, in addition to his current 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 children and teens being evaluated for ADHD the doctor will likely have teachers and other professionals who spend much time with the child to complete questionnaires or checklists. The doctor may also ask parents complete such forms. For adults, he or she will usually discuss marriage with spouses and other close friends, as well as co-workers and may also interview a family member who knows the person from their 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 also determine how long the symptoms have been present, and whether they cause impairment at home, school or at work, or in other aspects of daily life.
The mental health professional should also screen for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. They should also check for physical causes of the person's symptoms like thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. Additionally the thorough examination will also look at the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid with this by encouraging school staff to monitor the child closely, providing positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach methods of relaxation and calming, such as yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can enhance the ability of children with ADHD to concentrate and focus. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks that can aggravate their symptoms. They should also sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist through adolescence, and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest in the form of difficulties at work or in relationships. A health care provider will conduct an assessment to determine if someone has ADHD and the severity of it. This evaluation includes an examination of the mind, a physical examination, and interviews with the person as well as his or her parents, spouses or partners, and other people who are familiar with the person. The doctor may request a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. The doctor may also utilize rating scales or other tests to determine whether the person meets the typical criteria for ADHD. They can also inquire about any medical conditions that could be similar to ADHD symptoms, like seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If the person is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication is usually prescribed to control the symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medicines used to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are able to cause adverse negative effects, therefore one should only use them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. Tell your doctor about the medications you take. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD must try several different types and dosages of medication before settling on one that is suitable for him or her.
Prevention
In some cases, reducing exposure to triggers from the environment can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, routines for sleeping, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control these triggers, and refer you for additional support or to a dietitian who can suggest changes to your diet.
Children can also be helped by keeping their routines the same, limiting caffeine and sugar and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid supplements for your diet that do not have scientific backing or may interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they be suffering from ADHD should see a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get a diagnosis. The doctor will go through medical records, conduct a physical examination and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out any other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, observe the patient's behavior in various environments and apply the standard rating scales. He or she will consider the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms, as in determining whether they have a significant impact on the person's daily life.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive abilities that include the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists are able to prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also aid by providing a secure and loving home with clear expectations and rewards, encouraging good sleep habits and avoid stimulants. They should also encourage their children to interact with others, and work to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.
The staff at the school can provide valuable information about the behavior and learning challenges of a child however, they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. adhd diagnose must be taken by the child's parents, health provider, and teacher with the assistance of the other.
