Who Is ADHD Diagnoses And Why You Should Care
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. He will also look at your family history.
Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A major event, such as pregnancy or a relationship crisis is a trigger for awareness of the problem. Finding a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting to be called and paying attention in school or other environments. These issues can greatly impact their performance at work, at home or at school. The signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity have to be present for at minimum six months and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental level. They should also be causing significant problems at work, school or at home, as well as in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a qualified health care professional. This could include a thorough physical examination and a look for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms like depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider may also look over the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. Additionally, he will talk to the patient about his or her symptoms. Children are asked questions in accordance with their age. parents can be interviewed.
The physician will follow the American Psychiatric Society's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD for children and adults as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). He or she will examine the patient's behavior in the past and present and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If it is possible the therapist will review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When looking at adults, the physician will be able to determine whether or not they suffer from an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring, and will ask whether the patient has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a health care provider suspects someone may have ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This includes reviewing the patient's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a journal every day of their symptoms over a period of several weeks. The doctor will also inquire about any other medical conditions the person has and will consult the DSM-5 symptom guide to see whether they meet the criteria for 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. adhd diagnosis in adults includes clinical psychologists and physician assistants, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and may refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
A thorough medical exam, including an assessment of hearing and sight, is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. In addition, a specialist may recommend a brain scan known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA, to measure the concentration of beta and theta waves within the brain. This type of scan can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive and safe method.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history including his psychiatric and medical history dating back to childhood. He will also discuss the person's present 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).
For adolescents and children being screened for ADHD the doctor will likely ask teachers and other people who spend much time with the child to fill in checklists or questionnaires. The doctor may ask parents to fill out these forms. For adults, he or she will usually discuss marriage with spouses and other close friends, as well as colleagues and might also interview a family member 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. adult diagnosis of adhd will also determine how long the symptoms have been present, and whether they are causing difficulties at home, school and at work, or in other aspects of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. He or she must also look for physical causes for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. A thorough screening will also take a look at the person's psychological, social and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid them by encouraging the school staff to observe the child's progress, giving positive feedback and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming like yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can enhance the ability of children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks, which can worsen their symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
Symptoms of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the extent of it. This evaluation usually includes an examination of the mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual, his or her parents, spouse or life partner and other people who know the person well. The doctor may ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor may also utilize rating scales or other tests to determine that the person is in compliance with the standard criteria for ADHD. The person may also inquire about any medical conditions that can be similar to ADHD symptoms, like seizures and thyroid disorders.
If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD, medication will be prescribed to control symptoms. Stimulants are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD in children and adults. These medications can cause adverse effects. One should only use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications he or are taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous adverse effects. Many individuals with ADHD have to test a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before they find one that works for him or her.
The following is a list of preventatives.
In some cases, reducing exposure to environmental triggers can aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, sleep habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can guide you on how to manage triggers and refer you to a dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid supplements for your diet that do not have a scientific backing or interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect they have ADHD should consult an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist for a diagnosis. The doctor will take a detailed history, do a physical exam and look over medical records to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and use standard ratings scales. The therapist will also look at the duration and presence of the core ADHD symptoms, and whether they cause significant impairment in a person's life.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management, and other organizational techniques. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive skills, which involves identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of having fewer options. Psychologists may prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a stable and loving home with clear expectations and rewards, promoting good sleep habits and avoiding stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to socialize with others and develop a healthy relationship between them and their partner.
Staff at the school can provide valuable information about the behavior and learning challenges of a child however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions are taken by the child's parents, health care provider and teacher with the support of each other.