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Symptoms and Diagnosis of ADHD

Adults are usually not diagnosed until they experience significant issues at home, at work or at school. Health professionals follow the diagnostic criteria set out in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revision (DSM-5).

A complete evaluation will include ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized behavior rating scales. click hyperlink ask about family history and review old school records.


Signs and symptoms

ADHD symptoms can have a negative impact on the daily routine of a person, whether it is at school, home or work. They can disrupt relationships and careers, leading to financial issues or a driver's license and even create emotional distress for the person. It's normal to have trouble concentrating or being organized from time to time, but if it becomes a chronic problem and affects daily functioning, a health care provider may be able to identify ADHD.

A health care professional will need to evaluate the individual in two different environments, such as at home and at school, or in workplace and social settings. The health care professional must observe the person for at least six months and determine whether the symptoms are impacting their ability to perform. The symptoms must also be present prior to the age of 12 years old. Children who meet diagnostic criteria for hyperactivity/impulsivity or inattentive type of ADHD usually are fidgety, talkative and have excess energy that keeps them from sitting still. They are often unable to wait for their turn, and frequently interfere with others or interrupt them.

Children with the inattentive kind of ADHD are incapable of sitting or waiting at a comfortable pace and have difficulty following instructions or staying focused. They're usually daydreaming or distracted by their surroundings. They are more likely to be ignored and miss out on opportunities to learn, particularly in the early years of school, which can cause them to be a failure later in life.

The hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD is most common in children and involves the presence of at least six symptoms that include extreme restlessness, trouble with paying attention, constant movement or "on the go" behavior, excess energy and talkativeness. They are unable to sit or waiting for their turn, blurt out answers before they are finished and have trouble controlling their emotions.

It can be a relief to receive a diagnosis of ADHD however, it's not always an easy process. Some people may be ashamed, but they have to be honest so they can get the help they need. For some, it will be the first time they've realized their issues have a name. This knowledge can help them change the way they view themselves, which can lead to positive changes.

Diagnosis

When it comes to ADHD symptoms can manifest at different times for children and adults. In children, the symptoms usually begin in the middle of elementary school. For adults, it is slightly later. The signs can be mild, medium or even severe. They can also be a combination of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity or more focused on one or the other. In some cases the condition is misdiagnosed. It could be autism or a mood disorders like depression or anxiety.

Talk to your doctor when your child or teen shows indications of ADHD. They will do physical examinations, including vision and hearing, to make sure there isn't something else going on. They will ask you and your child to complete an inventory of their symptoms. They will be interested in knowing how the symptoms have affected their home and school life. They'll also want to hear about any past problems they've had.

For adults, a healthcare professional who's qualified to diagnose ADHD will use the process of conducting clinical interviews, as well as behavior rating scales or symptom checklists to determine whether they meet the criteria for diagnosis. Psychological tests can be used to determine your cognitive abilities, as well as how you think and process information. They may also perform a brain scan using the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid, which is FDA-approved (NEBA), which evaluates the activity of specific areas of your brain that control attention and the ability to be impulsive.

Additionally, they'll review your medical history to determine whether you've suffered from any other mental health problems or injuries, such as head trauma or thyroid conditions which can trigger similar symptoms. They might refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for a thorough examination.

To be diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to have a minimum of six or more signs that began in childhood or prior to the age of 12. The symptoms should have been present for at minimum 6 months and cause significant problems with your daily functioning. Adults have an upper threshold for diagnosis, however the criteria are the same: You must be suffering from at least five symptoms that interfere with your social, work and family life.

Treatment

The aim of treatment is to improve symptoms and restore functioning at home, school and work. There are a range of treatments available, including medication and behavior therapy. Many people have success through lifestyle changes, like establishing consistent routines by using a planner notebook, and scheduling tasks in advance. Certain people might benefit from learning disabilities therapies such as metacognitive therapy, which helps them improve their problem-solving abilities and organizational abilities or cognitive behavioral therapy that addresses the distortions in thinking which can cause low self-esteem and mood swings.

Health professionals who have been specifically trained to diagnose ADHD can suggest the most effective treatment for a person's situation. They will evaluate the person's symptoms, and when they are an adult, also their childhood and school experiences. They will employ interviews with a psychologist, behavior rating scales and checklists of symptoms to determine if the person meets the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. They may also ask about family history of mental illnesses and physical illnesses. They will inquire about the person's moods, behaviors and changes over time.

The diagnosis of ADHD is made upon six or more symptoms which begin before 12 years of age and cause issues in at minimum two settings (at school, at home, or in social situations). The symptoms must be present for at least 6 months. The symptoms must be more severe than what is normal for a person of the same age.

A medical checkup is usually performed to make sure that the person doesn't have any other health issues. Doctors will review the person's symptoms and medical and psychiatric history, and may suggest an eye exam or hearing test. Some people with ADHD are genetically predisposed to develop the disorder. Someone who has a parent or sibling with ADHD has a 91% chance to develop the disorder. ADHD is often accompanied by mood or anxiety disorder. These disorders are more difficult to treat than ADHD on its own.

The following is a list of preventatives.

Many things, including medical conditions and certain types of learning disabilities, could cause similar symptoms as those of ADHD. So it's important to see your health care provider or a mental health professional for an evaluation prior to determining a diagnosis. This person will ask your child about their symptoms and how they affect their daily lives. They may also utilize ratings scales or a checklist to determine if your child is suffering from ADHD. They can also conduct an examination and test for visual or hearing issues. They may also request an EEG brain scan that analyzes beta and theta waves to check on changes in your child’s brain function.

To be considered a child with ADHD, they must have a number of symptoms that are significantly more than the norm for their age or development level. The signs of inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity must cause significant problems at school, at home or at work. The symptoms should also affect your child's ability to interact with others. If your child has moderate or severe ADHD symptoms, they will need treatment with medication to live a normal life.

Children suffering from ADHD can find it difficult to follow directions and remain focused, which can lead to low self-esteem and poor grades. They may also have issues in social relationships because they aren't able to discern social signals. They frequently interrupt others and can appear violent or intense. They are susceptible to depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and issues with relationships.

Mild ADHD is characterized by symptoms that are visible but do not affect everyday life. It can making it difficult to maintain relationships or work. Those with moderate to severe ADHD will exhibit more symptoms, and they are more likely than others to have issues at work, like difficulties keeping a job or interacting with colleagues.

If they do not seek treatment may suffer serious consequences. Suggested Reading includes financial issues and health issues, as well as legal issues. There are a variety of treatments for ADHD that include psychosocial therapy and behavioral therapy including diet and nutrition, exercise, medication for sleep, and other treatments. NIMH provides more details about these options and ways to discuss them with your family.

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