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How ADHD Is Diagnosed Your doctor will ask questions regarding your current symptoms and your background with ADHD. He will also examine your family history. People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a relationship problems can prompt awareness of the problem. Getting 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 sitting still, waiting to be called and paying attention in school or in other settings. These issues can greatly affect their functioning at work, home or at school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must 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 home, school or work, and in relationships. Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a qualified health care professional. This may include a thorough physical exam and a look for other conditions which can cause similar symptoms to depression or thyroid disease. The doctor will also look at the family history of the patient and review medical, psychiatric, and academic records. In addition, he will talk to the patient about his or her symptoms. For children, the questions are usually geared toward their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed as well. The provider will use American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and in children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The provider will review the person's present symptoms and previous behavior, focusing on how they impact their social, family and professional life. If possible, he will look at the person's behavior in their childhood and school experiences too. When evaluating adults, the provider will consider whether or not they suffer from an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring, and will ask whether the patient has a family history of ADHD. People who have family members with the disorder are more likely to suffer from it themselves. If a healthcare professional suspects that a patient has ADHD, he or she will give the person an extensive clinical assessment that includes a review of their current symptoms and asking them to keep a daily journal of their symptoms for several weeks. They can 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 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 conduct screenings and determine the severity of the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner, physician assistants and psychiatrists are all able to identify ADHD. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They can send adults to a full evaluation. The first step in diagnosing ADHD is a thorough medical exam, including evaluation of vision and hearing. A specialist might also suggest 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 detect ADHD in a non-invasive and secure way. In an interview with the individual, the examiner reviews the patient's medical and mental history dating back to childhood, and also the present 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 great deal of time with children to complete checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents fill out these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, coworkers, and other close acquaintances. They might also want to interview someone who has known the person since 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 determine how long symptoms have been present and whether they cause problems at home, at school, at work, or in any other part of life. The mental health professional should also be able to detect other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD like anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. They must also determine any physical causes for the person's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. In addition an extensive screening will also look at the person's social, emotional and family background. Treatment Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Family members can assist them by encouraging school staff to watch the child closely, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming, such as yoga or meditation. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can enhance the ability of many children with ADHD to concentrate and focus. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks, as they can make their symptoms worse. They should also ensure they sleep enough. Symptoms of ADHD can persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest in the form of trouble at work or in relationships. A health care provider will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone has ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation consists of an examination of the mind as well as a physical exam and interviews with the individual as well as his or her parents or spouses, and others who are familiar with him or her. The doctor may request the patient to list their symptoms and how they impact them. He or she can also use rating scales or other tests to determine whether the person meets the typical criteria for ADHD. They can also ask about any medical conditions that may be a cause of ADHD symptoms, such as seizures and thyroid disorders. If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD medications is prescribed to manage symptoms. Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medicines used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These medications can trigger side effects. It is recommended that you use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications she is taking, because certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD have to try various types and dosages of medication before they find one that works. The following is a list of preventatives. In some cases it is possible to reduce exposure to environmental triggers may help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to the way you eat, your sleeping habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can guide you on how to manage triggers and recommend an 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 mineral supplements (consult your GP). Beware of supplements for your diet that do not have a scientific basis or could interfere with certain medications. adhd diagnosing who believe they have ADHD should see a mental health professional like a psychiatrist or psychologist for an assessment. The doctor will conduct a thorough medical history, perform physical examination and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, examine the patient's behavior in various environments and apply standard rating scales. The therapist will assess the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms as well in determining whether they have a significant impact on the person's daily life. Often, a therapist will work with the family and patient to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other strategies for organization and educate the patient in metacognitive techniques, which involve the identification and modification of "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions about the lack of choices. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medication and work with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive treatment. Parents can assist by providing a stable, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, encouraging a good sleep hygiene, and avoiding stimulants. They should also encourage their child to interact with others, and make an effort to establish a healthy relationship with their partner. School staff can provide valuable information regarding behavior and learning problems in a student however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. These decisions are made by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with cooperation of all three.
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