How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms as well as your previous experiences with ADHD. He will also review your family history.
Most often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in their lives. A major event such as the birth of a child or a relationship problems can prompt awareness of the problem. Recognizing the issue is the first step towards managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with being still, waiting their turn, and paying attention at schools or in other settings, those who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues in a way that impairs functioning at home, in school or at work. The signs of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity have to be present for at minimum six months and be more prominent than is normal for their age or developmental stage. Additionally, they must be causing significant suffering and difficulties at home, school or work, and in relationships.
Being diagnosed with ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a trained health professional. This may include a physical examination, and a look at other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, like thyroid or depression. The health professional may also review the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are generally targeted towards their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Association'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). The doctor will analyze the person's past and current behavior and how it impacts their professional, social and family life. If possible, he or will look at the person's past behavior as well as school experiences as well.
When evaluating adults, a provider will determine if they suffer from mental health issues that co-occurs, and the presence of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who suffer from the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If the health care provider suspects someone is suffering from ADHD If he or she suspects that someone has ADHD, they will provide the patient with a complete clinical evaluation which includes reviewing their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily diary of their symptoms for some weeks. He or she will also inquire about any other conditions that the person may have and will refer to the DSM-5 symptom guide to see if they have any of the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness can screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all able to recognize ADHD. Family doctors may diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They can send adults to a full assessment.
adhd adult diagnosis uk which includes a thorough assessment of hearing and sight, is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. A doctor may also recommend an MRI scanner called an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the relative intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a safe, noninvasive method of screening people for ADHD.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history including his psychiatric and medical history dating back to childhood. The doctor will also discuss the individual's current symptoms as well as ways of 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 ask teachers and others who spend a great deal of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. The doctor may ask parents to fill in these forms. For adults, he or she will often talk to spouses and other close friends as well as colleagues and may also interview relatives who know 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 determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and whether they cause impairment at home, in the workplace, at school or in any other area of life.
The mental health professional should also screen for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. The professional must also determine any physical causes for the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep problems. A thorough screening will also take a look at the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD require learning to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging school staff to monitor their child closely, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patience. They can also teach relaxation and calming methods, such as yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can enhance the ability of children with ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks, as they can make their symptoms worse. They should also ensure they get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can persist through the adolescent years, and into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest as problems at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation typically includes an assessment of mental health along with a physical exam, and interviews with the individual, his or her parents, spouse or a life partner, and other family members who know him or her well. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. He or she may also use rating scales and other tests to verify that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They can also ask about any medical conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms, for example seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If someone is diagnosed with ADHD the medication will usually be prescribed to control the symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children and adults. These drugs are likely to cause side consequences, and therefore a person should only take them under a medical supervision and with a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications are taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants to create dangerous adverse effects. Many individuals with ADHD must try several different types and dosages of medication before they find one that works for them.
Prevention
In certain cases, reducing exposure to environmental triggers can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These can include the way you eat, your sleep habits family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can help you in finding ways to control triggers, and can suggest a dietitian for nutrition advice or other assistance.
Children can also be helped by maintaining their routines as well as limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without research-based backing or that might interfere with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may have ADHD should see an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist for an assessment. The doctor will take a detailed medical history, perform an examination of the body and look over medical records to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe their behavior and use the standard ratings scales. The therapist will take into consideration the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as well in determining whether they have a significant impact on a person's daily life.
A therapist may work with a patient and their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment.
Parents can also help by providing a secure and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep hygiene and avoiding stimulants. Parents should encourage their children to socialize with others and build a healthy relationship between them and their loved ones.
adhd diagnosed at the school can offer valuable information regarding behavior and learning issues in a child, but they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. Parents and the student's health care provider have to make these decisions, with the help of the teacher.