How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms as well as your previous experiences with ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. An event that is significant, such as a pregnancy or relationship issues can trigger awareness of the issue. Finding a diagnosis is the first step to 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, children who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to a degree that significantly hinders their performance at home, school or work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity have to be present for a minimum of 6 months and must be significantly higher than what is normal for the child's age or development level. Additionally, they must be causing significant distress and problems at home, school or work, and in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a certified health care provider. This could include a physical exam and checking for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, like thyroid or depression. The health professional may also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. He will also ask the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents can be interviewed.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD for 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 analyze the person's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it affects their professional, social and family life. If it is possible the therapist will review the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will consider whether they have a mental health condition that co-occurs, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. People with family members who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from it themselves.
If a health care provider suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct a full clinical evaluation. This will include analyzing the person's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms over the course of several weeks. They can also inquire about any other medical conditions they suffer from, and refer them to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the person is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can perform screening 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 comprehensive evaluation.
The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam which includes a thorough examination of vision and hearing. A specialist might suggest a brain scan known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the amount of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a non-invasive, safe method to screen people for ADHD.
In an interview with the person the examiner will review the individual's medical and psychiatric history going 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 will ask teachers and others who spend a great deal of time with children to complete questionnaires or checklists. The doctor may ask parents to fill out such forms. For adults, they is likely to discuss marriage with spouses and other close friends as well as co-workers and may 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. They will also determine the length of time that symptoms have been present and if they result in impairment at home, in school, at work, or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional should also look for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. They should also search for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. Additionally, a thorough screening will also examine the person's social, emotional and family history.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid them by encouraging school staff to watch the child's progress, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach the child relaxation and calming techniques, such as yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can improve the ability of children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. Sugary foods and beverages can worsen symptoms. Also, they should ensure they get enough rest.
The symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. In adults, they may manifest in the form of difficulties at work or in relationships. A doctor will perform an evaluation to determine whether a person has ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation includes an assessment of the mental state and physical examination and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents or spouses, and other people familiar with him or her. The healthcare provider might ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they impact them. They may also use rating scales and other tests to confirm that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. He or she may also inquire about any medical conditions that may be similar to ADHD symptoms, for example thyroid disorder and seizure disorder.
If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD medications will be prescribed to control symptoms. Stimulants are the most common medicines used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These medications can trigger side effects. One should only take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with the prescription of a doctor. Discuss with your doctor the medications you take. Certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many individuals with ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages before they find one that works for them.
The following is a list with preventions.
In certain cases it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers in the environment can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to the way you eat, your sleeping habits, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to manage these triggers, and refer you for further assistance or to a dietitian to suggest changes to your diet.
Consult your GP for more information. Beware of supplements for your diet that do not have a scientific backing or interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect ADHD should consult a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct a physical examination and take a detailed medical history to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and use standardized ratings scales. They will also examine the duration and presence of the core ADHD symptoms, and whether they result in significant impairments in the life of a person.
A therapist may work with a patient and their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive skills that include the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" which can lead to negative moods or the perception of a lack of choices. undiagnosed adhd in adults can also prescribe medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care.
Parents can also assist by providing a secure and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. They should encourage their child to be social and develop a healthy relationship between them and their loved ones.
adhd adult diagnosis uk at the school can provide valuable information on the behavior and learning challenges of the child, but they are not competent to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. The parents of the child and their health care provider have to make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.