How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms and your history with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A major event such as pregnancy or a relationship problems can prompt awareness of the issue. Finding a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with sitting still, waiting for their turn, and paying attention at schools and other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems in a way that hinders their performance at home, school or work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity must be present for at least 6 months and must be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's age or development level. They should be causing major problems at school, work, home and in relationships.
A certified health professional will conduct a clinical assessment to determine the presence of ADHD. This could include a physical exam and a look at other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like thyroid disease or depression. The health care professional will also look over the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. Additionally, he will talk to the patient about the symptoms they are experiencing. For children the questions are generally geared toward their age, and parents may be interviewed too.
The physician will follow the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults, which are outlined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). He or she will look at the person's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If possible, he or will look at the person's behavior in their childhood and school experiences, too.
When evaluating adults, a provider will look into whether they have a mental health issue that is co-occurring, and the presence of ADHD in the family. People with family members with ADHD are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone may have ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This involves examining the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a journal every day of their symptoms over the course of several weeks. The doctor may also ask the person about any other medical conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person has any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and make a diagnosis of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all able to identify ADHD. Family doctors may diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They may refer adults for a comprehensive evaluation.
A thorough medical exam that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing, is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. Additionally, Our Webpage may suggest an examination of the brain, called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA, to measure the concentration of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.
In an interview with the individual an 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).
The doctor may request teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with children to complete questionnaires or checklists. The doctor may ask parents to fill in such forms. For adults, they will usually talk to spouses and other close friends, as well as co-workers, and may want to 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. adhd diagnosis uk adults or she will also determine the length of time the symptoms have been present, and if they are causing problems at school, home or at work, or in other aspects of daily life.
The mental health professional should also check for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. He or she should also look for any physical causes of the person's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. Additionally the thorough examination will also check the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can support this by encouraging school staff to watch their child closely, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also instruct relaxation and calming methods such as meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet, which will enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks, which can aggravate their symptoms. They should also ensure they sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD and the extent of it. The evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state as well as a physical exam and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents and spouses or partners and others who are familiar with him or her. The healthcare provider might request an inventory of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. The doctor might also employ rating scales or other tests to determine if the person is in compliance with the standardized criteria for ADHD. The doctor will also conduct a medical history of any medical issues that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If a person is diagnosed as having ADHD, medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. These medications are typically prescribed to treat ADHD and related disorders in both children and adults. These drugs are likely to cause adverse negative effects, therefore one should only take them under a doctor's supervision and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about the medications you take. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to test a variety of types and dosages of medication before finding one that is suitable for them.
Prevention
In certain cases, reducing exposure to environmental triggers can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. This could include diet, sleeping habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to deal with these triggers and can refer you for additional support or to a dietitian who can suggest changes in your diet.
Consult your GP for more details. Avoid dietary supplements without research-based backing or that might be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who suspect ADHD should see a mental health professional, such as psychiatrist or psychologist, for diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct physical examinations and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, examine the person's behavior in different settings and use the standard rating scales. They will also look at the severity and frequency of core ADHD symptoms, and if they cause significant impairment in a person's life.
Therapists may collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes identifying and changing "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of limited choices. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can help by providing a secure family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an appropriate sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. They should encourage their child to interact with others and build a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
School staff can provide valuable information on the learning and behavior of a student However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. The student's parents and health care provider must make these decisions with the support of the teacher.