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How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms as well as your history with ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a breakup can trigger awareness of the problem. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to receive an assessment.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble sitting still, waiting to be called, and paying attention at school or in other situations. These problems can significantly impact their performance at work, at home or at school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should be present for at least 6 months and must be significantly more than what is typical for the child's age and development level. They should also be causing significant issues at school, at work or at home, as well as in relationships.
A qualified health care professional must conduct a medical evaluation to diagnose ADHD. This could include a thorough physical exam and a review of other conditions that could cause similar symptoms like thyroid disease or depression. The doctor will also look at the person's family history as well as examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents are also able to be interviewed.
The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults as well as children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the patient's current symptoms as well as previous behavior, focusing on how they interfere with their social, family and professional lives. If it is possible the therapist will look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will determine if they suffer from mental health issues that is co-occurring, and the presence of ADHD in the family. People with family members with the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a health professional suspects that a patient has ADHD the doctor will provide the patient with a complete clinical evaluation that includes a review of their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily diary of their symptoms for some weeks. He or she may also inquire about any other medical conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient meets any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and determine the severity of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all certified to identify ADHD. Family doctors may diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They may recommend adults to undergo a thorough evaluation.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam, including evaluation of vision and hearing. A specialist might also suggest the use of a brain scanner, also known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the relative intensity of 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 his current 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 adolescents and children being evaluated for ADHD, the doctor may have teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with the child to complete checklists or questionnaires. They might also ask parents to complete these forms. For adults, he or she will usually speak to spouses and close friends and also co-workers and might also interview someone from the family who knows the person from 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 difficulties at home, school, work or in other aspects of life.
The mental health professional must also look for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. They should also search for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. A thorough examination will also look at the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can assist by encouraging the school staff to monitor their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also instruct relaxation techniques and methods for calming, such as meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity and a balanced diet, which will enhance their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods high in sugar can worsen symptoms. Also, they should ensure they sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest in the form of problems at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation consists of a mental history as well as a physical exam and interviews with the person and his or her parents and spouses or partners and others who are familiar with him or her. The provider may ask for a list of the individual's symptoms and how they affect them. He or she may also use rating scales and other tests to verify that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. The person may also ask about any medical conditions that can be similar to ADHD symptoms, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children as well as adults. These medications can cause adverse effects. A person should only take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about the medications you take. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants, causing dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages of medication before settling on one that works for them.
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In certain cases the reduction of exposure to triggers in the environment can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, sleeping habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control triggers, and can recommend a dietitian for nutrition advice or other assistance.
Consult your GP for more information. Avoid supplements for dietary purposes that have no scientific backing or that may interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should visit an expert in mental health for diagnosis, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, perform an examination of the body 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, observe the person's behavior in different settings and use standardized rating 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.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient as well as their family to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of having fewer choices. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can aid by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an excellent sleep hygiene and avoiding stimulants. Parents must also encourage their child to socialize, and try to establish a healthy relationship with their spouse.
School staff can provide valuable information about the learning and behavior of students, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or make decisions about treatment. These decisions are taken by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with the cooperation of all three.
