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How to Diagnose ADHD
Finding out if you have ADHD involves gathering a variety of information. Your doctor will look at your symptoms as well as your medical history and apply standardized ADHD ratings scales. They'll also make sure something else isn't causing your child or adult's problems for example, sleep apnea, thyroid problems depression, or drug abuse.
To be diagnosed, ADHD symptoms must significantly affect school and family life and last for at least six months.
Signs and symptoms
Before determining ADHD, a health care provider must carefully evaluate the person. They will ask about symptoms, check family, social and medical history, look over recent and previous medical and mental health issues and conduct a physical exam. The provider may also order tests to rule out anxiety, depression or other disorders that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
A person with ADHD is more likely to have trouble concentrating for long periods of time. This can impact schoolwork and other tasks that are important. They are more prone to be distracted by other people, activities or things that are around them. They are unable to follow instructions, remembering specifics and keeping deadlines. They may be easily annoyed by criticism or have unrealistic expectations for themselves, which can cause disappointment and failure.
The symptoms of ADHD can vary from individual to individual and can be mild or moderate, or even severe. Mild symptoms don't hinder everyday activities or relationships. Severe symptoms can cause serious problems at work and home. People with ADHD generally have symptoms throughout their lives. It is more common in children, but a few adults are not diagnosed because they are able to manage the symptoms.
For children with ADHD, the doctor will conduct an extensive exam that includes hearing and vision tests. The doctor will discuss with the child, parents and teachers about their habits and behavior and may request an imaging scan of the brain to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms, such as an MRI or CT scan.
A psychiatric assessment is usually conducted by a psychologist, clinical social worker or nurse practitioner. The person who evaluates the patient will inquire about the individual's symptoms, how they affect their life and work, and will take into account the family's history and education. The evaluator will also review the individual's medical and mental health history, and speak with other family members and friends to get a more complete picture.
The evaluator will decide if the person has the predominantly inattentive presentation of ADHD, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type or both. The inattentive presentation is more common among girls and affects all ages, while the hyperactive-impulsive type is more common in boys and younger children.
Triggers
If you have children who are always in a state of mind, struggling to focus on schoolwork or other chores at home, and is easily distracted by their peers, it may be time to ask for help. ADHD is a brain-based condition, and children with it are unable to focus and controlling their behavior and staying organized. It impacts a child's life in a variety of ways, and can cause problems at school, home and with classmates and family members.
Before taking how to get diagnosed with adhd uk to see a doctor, start by making notes and then watching how they behave. A good psychiatrist or a psychologist will look at the combination of signs and symptoms in order to determine if your child is suffering from ADD/ADHD. They will also take into consideration the child's developmental stage as well as age. A child diagnosed with ADD must exhibit at least 6 symptoms (or 5 in older teens) of inattention for a minimum of six months, and these signs are a hindrance to daily functioning. ADHD symptoms include fidgeting and talking, tapping or performing other repetitive movements and inability to finish tasks, follow instructions, or do chores.
A professional will also inquire how these behaviors impact your child's daily life. They will be interested in knowing if they have trouble with academics or other activities are having difficulty maintaining friendships or romantic relationships and are often late for appointments. They will also examine your child's past medical history and any medications they are currently taking, because certain medications can cause symptoms of ADHD.
The criteria used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5, are intended to help diagnose children. The most reliable method of diagnosing ADHD in adulthood is a clinical interview with a specialist in the disorder, who will take their time during the assessment and not rush the process. In most cases, they'll utilize computer programs and brain scans to study the structure of your child's brain.
Finding triggers is the first step to tackling ADHD. Once you have identified what triggers your symptoms you can take actions that will help you avoid them. For example you can limit screen time, eat a balanced diet and plan regular sleep time.
Diagnosis
If you suspect ADHD the first step is to seek an expert diagnosis. Many medical professionals are specially trained to evaluate ADHD in adults. When choosing a medical professional inquire about his or her education and experience with adult ADHD.
Your doctor will use Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), fifth edition, in order to make an assessment. They will want to know if you exhibit a variety of symptoms that manifest for a period of six months and can interfere with your life at home, work or socially. These include: inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, difficulty sitting still or waiting your turn, trouble organizing activities, making careless mistakes, problems with schoolwork or work, and difficulties forming close relationships.
The assessment will also consider other conditions that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include mood disorders, learning disorders such as depression or anxiety thyroid disorders, head injuries and other medical conditions. Your doctor may also look into your family history to see whether you suffered from ADHD as an infant.
It is crucial to include information from family members when evaluating your ADHD because those with ADHD aren't able to establish close relationships. Teachers as well as religious and Scout leaders, coaches, co-workers and other people who spend time with you can also provide useful information. They can inform your doctor about your interactions with them and if there are any specific challenges that you have in these relationships.
A doctor will usually request you to complete questionnaires and conduct an interview. Sometimes, computer programs, like continuous performance tests or SPECT brain scans are used to assess attention and impulsivity.
Your doctor and you will discuss your life in order to determine if you have any major issues at work or in your relationships. You might also want to consider couples therapy in the event that you have a spouse or partner. You and your doctor will need to work together to find the treatment plan that works best for you. This may include lifestyle changes as well as counseling or medication.
Treatment
The good news is that treating ADHD can aid you or your child manage symptoms and lead an active and fulfilling life. There are a myriad of options for treatment that include therapy and medication.
It is essential to consult with a mental health professional who specializes in ADHD. They will provide you with an accurate diagnosis, create a treatment plan and teach you coping strategies to manage your symptoms. They can also work with your child's teachers to support their learning and behavioral needs in the school.
The majority of children and teens suffering from ADHD can be treated using a an ad-hoc combination of therapy for behavior and medication. The dosage and type of medication will differ from one person to another. It can take time to find the right dose and the drug that is most effective for you or your child. Ask your doctor for samples and talk about different medication options. This allows you to test out the different medications to see which ones work best and have the fewest negative side consequences.
Adults with untreated ADHD might have issues at work or in their relationships. They may have trouble keeping their job, interacting with coworkers, or completing financial obligations. They are often afflicted with anxiety and depression as well. A medical professional will examine the person's emotional and mental history and moods. The doctor might suggest an evaluation for mood disorders or other conditions which can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
During the diagnosis consultation the doctor will pay attention to your your child's story. They may ask about your family and social life. They may also inquire about how the symptoms impact you or your child's daily functioning. They might request information from relatives and teachers to get a more complete picture. The doctor will probably suggest a thorough physical examination which includes urine and blood tests. The doctor might also suggest brain imaging.
If you suspect that you or your child may have ADHD begin by talking to your primary physician. They can refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist or other mental health professional that specializes in treating ADHD. Check with your health insurer to see if the professionals you're considering using are covered. If not, think about a mental health coverage service such as BetterHelp.
