Why You Must Experience ADHD Diagnoses At A Minimum, Once In Your Lifetime
How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms and your previous experiences with ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A significant event like the birth of a child or a relationship issues can trigger 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 a lot of trouble waiting to be called and paying attention in school or in other settings. These issues can seriously impact their performance at home, work or at school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity must have been present for at least six months, and be noticeably greater than expected for their age or developmental level. Additionally, they should be causing significant pain and issues at school, at home or work, and also in relationships.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a trained health care professional. This may include a thorough physical exam and a review of other conditions which can cause similar symptoms to thyroid disease or depression. The health care provider may also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric, and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents can be interviewed.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are outlined in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The doctor will examine the patient's behavior in the past and present and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If possible, the therapist will also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a provider will determine if they suffer from a mental health condition that is co-occurring, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. People with family members who have the disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
If a healthcare professional suspects someone has ADHD the doctor will conduct a full clinical evaluation. This includes reviewing the patient's symptoms and asking them to keep a daily log of their symptoms over a time of several weeks. He or she will also ask about any other conditions that the person may have, and will use the DSM-5 symptom guide to see whether they meet the characteristics of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness can screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all able to diagnose ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and might refer adults to specialists for a thorough assessment.
A thorough medical examination that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing, is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. A doctor may also recommend 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 kind of scan can be used to test for ADHD in a non-invasive, safe way.
In an interview with the individual an examiner reviews the person's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, and also 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 ask teachers and others who spend a lot of time with children to complete questionnaires or checklists. He or she may also ask parents complete such forms. Adults often talk to their spouses, co-workers and other close acquaintances. They might also wish to interview someone who has known the person since childhood.
During get adhd diagnosis , the mental health professional looks for signs that indicate whether the person is experiencing predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. The doctor will determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and whether they are causing problems at home, at the workplace, at school or in any other part of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They should also check for physical causes of the person's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. In addition the thorough examination will also check the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging the school staff to monitor 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. Many children with ADHD benefit from regular physical exercise and a healthy diet which can help increase their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can make their symptoms worse. They should also make sure they sleep enough.
ADHD symptoms can persist through adolescence, and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest in the form of trouble at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the extent of it. The evaluation consists of an assessment of the mental state and physical examination and interviews with the person, his or parents and spouses or partners and other people familiar with the person. The doctor may request a list of the individual's symptoms and how they affect them. They can also use rating scales or other tests to confirm whether the person meets the the standard criteria for ADHD. The doctor will also take a note of any medical conditions which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as seizures and thyroid disorders.
If a person is diagnosed with ADHD A medication will usually be prescribed to treat the symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children and adults. These medications can trigger side effects. A person should only use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about the medications you take. Certain medications can interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous adverse effects. Many people suffering from ADHD must try several different kinds and dosages of medications before finding one that is suitable for him or her.
Prevention
In some cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers in the environment can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers may include sleep and diet as well as family structure and medications. A GP can guide you on how to control triggers and suggest a dietitian for nutritional advice or for additional assistance.
Children can also be helped by following the same routines as well as limiting sugar and caffeine and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Beware of supplements for your diet that do not have a scientific basis or could be incompatible with certain medications.
Adults who believe they may be suffering from ADHD should see an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get a diagnosis. The doctor will take a thorough history, do an examination of the body and look over medical records to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe the patient's behavior, and utilize standard ratings scales. The therapist will take into consideration the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms, as in determining whether they have an impact on a person's everyday life.
Often, a therapist will collaborate with the family and patient to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other organizational strategies and educate the patient on metacognitive techniques, which involve the identification and modification of "thinking distortions" that lead to negative moods and perceptions about the lack of choices. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive care.
Parents can aid by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging a good sleep hygiene, and avoiding stimulants. Parents should also encourage their children to be social and make an effort to develop a healthy relationship with their child's partner.
Staff at the school can offer valuable information regarding behavior and learning issues in the child, but they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. The student's parents and health care provider have to make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.