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How ADHD Is Diagnosed Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and history with ADHD. The doctor will also review your family history. Often, people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. An event that is significant, such as the birth of a child or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the issue. The first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving function is to obtain a diagnosis. Characteristics Many children have difficulty being still, waiting their turn and paying attention in school or in other settings, children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues to the extent that impairs functioning at home, school or work. The symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity should have been present for at least six months and be more prominent than is normal for their age or developmental stage. Additionally, they should be causing significant suffering and issues at school, home, at work, as well as in relationships. A qualified health care professional must conduct a medical evaluation to diagnose ADHD. This may include a thorough physical examination and a check for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health professional will also look at the person's family history as well as review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. Children are asked questions according to their age, and parents are also able to be interviewed. The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The doctor 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, he or will examine the person's past behavior as well as school experiences, too. When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will look into whether they have a mental health issue that is co-occurring, and whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. People who have family members with the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves. If how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult that someone has ADHD, he or she will provide the patient with an exhaustive clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms for some weeks. He or she will also inquire about any other medical conditions the patient has and will refer to the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine if they have any of the characteristics of ADHD. Diagnosis Many health care providers who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Family doctors may also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents, and may refer adults to specialists for a thorough assessment. The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an exhaustive medical exam which includes a thorough evaluation of vision and hearing. Additionally, a doctor may recommend an examination of the brain, called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the relative concentration of the beta and theta waves within the brain. This type of scan can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive and safe manner. The doctor will go over the patient's medical history including his medical and psychiatric background that goes back to childhood. The doctor will also discuss the person's present symptoms and 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). For adolescents and children being evaluated for ADHD, the doctor will likely have teachers and other professionals who spend long periods of time with the child to fill in checklists or questionnaires. He or she may also ask parents fill out these forms. For adults, he or she will often talk to spouses and other close friends, as well as colleagues and may 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. The doctor will also determine for how long the symptoms have been present for, and whether they cause problems at school, home or at work, or in other areas of life. The mental health professional must also be able to detect other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They should also look for any physical causes of the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep disorders. Additionally, a thorough screening will also check the person's emotional, social and family background. Treatment Children suffering from ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging school staff to watch their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also instruct relaxation techniques and methods for calming like meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD benefit from regular exercise and a balanced diet, which will increase their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks that can make their symptoms worse. Also, they should ensure they get enough sleep. The symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties in their work or relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine whether a person has ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation consists of a mental history and physical examination and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents or spouses, and other people who are familiar with the person. The doctor may request a list of the person's symptoms and how they affect him or her. The doctor may also utilize rating scales or other tests to determine whether the person meets the typical criteria for ADHD. They will also take a history of any medical issues which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as seizures and thyroid disorders. If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD the medication is prescribed to manage symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications used to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are able to cause side effects, so a person should only use them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. The person should also tell the doctor about any other medications he or are taking, as certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to try various types and dosages of medications before they discover one that works. Prevention In some instances, reducing the exposure to triggers from the environment can help prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to the way you eat, your routines for sleeping family structure, medications and exercise. A GP can guide you in identifying ways to control triggers, and can suggest an dietitian for nutritional advice or for additional assistance. Consult your GP for more details. Avoid supplements for your diet that do not have a scientific backing or be incompatible with certain medications. Adults who suspect they have ADHD should see a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for an assessment. The doctor will go through medical records, perform physical examinations and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe their behavior, and utilize standard ratings scales. The therapist will assess the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms, as well being aware of whether they have a significant impact on a person's everyday life. A therapist may work 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" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of alternatives. Psychologists may also prescribe specific medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive care. Parents can help by providing a stable family environment, setting clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an appropriate sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. They should encourage their child to interact with others and build a healthy relationship between them and their loved ones. School staff can provide valuable information on the learning and behavior of a student, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. The student's parents and healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.
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