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How ADHD Is Diagnosed

Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms and previous experiences with ADHD. He will also look over your family history.

People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a relationship crisis is a trigger for awareness of the problem. The first step in addressing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning is to get a diagnosis.

Characteristics


Many children have difficulty sitting still, waiting their turn, and paying attention at school or in other settings, those who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD have these issues to the extent that affects their functioning at home, in school or at work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for a minimum of 6 months and be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's age or development level. Additionally, they must be causing significant distress and difficulties at home, school or at work, as well as in relationships.

A trained health care professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to diagnose ADHD. This may include a thorough physical exam and a review of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to depression or thyroid disease. The health care provider will also examine the person's family history and examine medical, psychiatric and academic records. The doctor will also inquire with the patient about their symptoms. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents can be interviewed too.

The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5 which is the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The doctor will examine the patient's behavior, both in the past and now, and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If it is possible the therapist may also examine the person's school and childhood experiences.

When evaluating adults, a provider will consider whether they have a mental health condition that is co-occurring, as well as if there is a history of ADHD in the family. People who have family members with the disorder are more likely to have it themselves.

If a health care provider suspects someone has ADHD, they will perform a full clinical evaluation. This involves examining the patient's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a journal every day of their symptoms over a time of a few weeks. They can also inquire about any other issues they suffer from, and refer them to the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the patient meets any of the ADHD criteria.

Diagnosis

Many health professionals who are interested in ADHD or who specialize in mental illness are able to screen and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioner psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all certified to diagnose ADHD. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in children and adolescents and might refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.

The first step to diagnose ADHD is a thorough medical exam, including assessment of hearing and vision. Additionally, a doctor might suggest the brain scan, also known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA, to measure the relative concentration of the theta and beta waves in the brain. This kind of scan can be used to detect ADHD in a non-invasive, secure method.

In an interview with the person an examiner reviews the patient's medical and mental history dating back to childhood, in addition to the present symptoms and coping strategies. 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 other staff members who spend a lot of time with children to complete questionnaires or checklists. They might also ask parents to fill out these forms. Adults will often speak to their spouses, colleagues and other close family members. They may also want to interview someone who has been with 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. He or she will determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and if they result in impairment at home, in the workplace, at school, or in any other part of life.

The mental health professional should also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. He or she must also look for physical causes like thyroid issues or sleep disorders. Additionally an extensive screening will also look at the person's social, emotional and family history.

Treatment

Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging the school staff to monitor their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also help teach relaxation and calming methods like meditation or yoga. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can improve the ability of children with ADHD to focus and concentrate. Drinks and foods high in sugar can cause more symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.

The symptoms of ADHD are present throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties at work or in relationships. diagnosing adhd will conduct an evaluation to determine if a person is suffering from ADHD, and the severity of it. This evaluation usually includes an assessment of mental health as well as a physical examination and interviews with the person as well as his or her parents, spouse or a life partner, and other family members who know the person well. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. They can also use rating scales or other tests to determine that the person is in compliance with the standard criteria for ADHD. The doctor will also take a note of any medical conditions which could mimic the symptoms of ADHD like thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.

If a person is diagnosed with ADHD, a medication is typically prescribed to manage the symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children as well as adults. These medications can cause adverse effects. One should only take these medications under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. The patient should inform the doctor about any other medications he or are taking, as certain drugs can interact with stimulants to cause dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD must try different dosages and types of medication before they find one that works.

The following is a list with preventions.

In certain cases the reduction of exposure to environmental triggers can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers can be related to the way you eat, your routines for sleeping and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to control these triggers and can refer you for further assistance or a dietitian to suggest changes in your diet.

Children can also be helped by keeping their routines the same as well as limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without scientific backing or that may interact with certain medications.

Adults who suspect they have ADHD should consult a mental health professional like a psychologist or psychiatrist, for diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, perform a physical examination and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out any other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, examine the person's behavior in different situations and employ standard rating scales. The therapist will also consider the presence and duration of core ADHD symptoms, and if they result in significant impairments in a person's life.

Most often, therapists will work with the family member and patient to improve parenting skills as well as teach time management and other strategies for organization and educate the patient in metacognitive techniques that focus on the identification and modification of "thinking distortions" that cause negative moods and perceptions of a lack of options. Psychologists can prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.

Parents can aid by providing a secure and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting an appropriate sleep hygiene and refraining from stimulants. They must also encourage their child to interact with others, and try to develop a healthy relationship with their spouse.

School staff can provide valuable information on the learning and behavior of the student However, they are not able to diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. Parents and the student's healthcare provider must make these decisions with the help of the teacher.

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