Everything You Need To Know About ADHD Diagnoses How ADHD Is Diagnosed

Your doctor will be asking questions about your current symptoms and background with ADHD. He will also examine your family history.

People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. An event that is significant, such as the birth of a child or a relationship issues can trigger awareness of the issue. Getting a diagnosis is the first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.

Characteristics

Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty sitting still, waiting to be called and focusing at school or in other settings. These problems can significantly affect their functioning at home, work, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity should have been present for at minimum six months and be significantly more than what is expected for their age or development level. Additionally, they must be causing significant distress and issues at school, at home or work, and in relationships.

A trained health care professional will conduct a clinical assessment to diagnose ADHD. This may include a thorough physical exam and a check for other conditions which can cause similar symptoms to 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. For children the questions are typically geared toward their age, and parents may be interviewed as well.

The physician will follow 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). The provider will examine the patient's past and current behavior and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If possible, he will look at the person's behavior in their childhood and school experiences as well.

When looking at adults, the physician will be able to determine whether they suffer from a co-occurring mental health condition and ask whether the patient has a family history of ADHD. Family members of those with the disorder are more likely to develop it.

If a healthcare professional suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD the doctor will conduct an entire clinical examination. This will include analyzing the patient's symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily log of their symptoms over a time of a few weeks. He or she will also inquire about any other conditions the patient has, and will use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine whether they meet the symptoms 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 and physician assistants, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Certain family physicians diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They might refer adults for a comprehensive assessment.

A thorough medical examination that includes an evaluation of hearing and sight, is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. A specialist may recommend the brain scan, also called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to determine the concentration of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a non-invasive, safe method to screen people for ADHD.


In an interview with the individual, the examiner reviews the individual's medical and psychiatric background dating back to childhood, in addition to 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 ask teachers and other staff members who spend a great deal of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. The doctor may also ask parents to fill in these forms. Adults are often asked to speak to their spouses, coworkers, and other close acquaintances. 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 also determine how long the symptoms have been present for, and whether they cause impairment at home, school and at work, or in other areas of daily life.

The mental health professional must also be able to detect other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. He or she should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep problems. Additionally, adult diagnosis of adhd will also look at the person's emotional, social and family history.

Treatment

Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging school staff to monitor their child closely, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also help teach the child relaxation techniques and techniques for calming, such as yoga or meditation. Many children with ADHD can benefit from regular exercise and a balanced diet, which can help increase their ability to concentrate and focus. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can aggravate symptoms. They should also ensure they sleep enough.

Symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence and even into adulthood. In adults, they could manifest in the form of difficulties at work or in relationships. A healthcare professional will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the extent of it. The evaluation typically includes an examination of the mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the person and their parents, spouse or a life partner, and other people who know the person well. The doctor may request a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. The doctor might also employ rating scales or other tests to confirm that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. He or she will also collect a history of any medical problems that could mimic the symptoms of ADHD like seizures and thyroid disorders.

If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD, medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. Stimulants are the most common medicines used to treat ADHD in children and adults. These drugs can cause side effects. It is recommended that you use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. It is also important to 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 need to test various types and dosages of medications before they discover one that works.

Prevention

In certain cases, reducing the exposure to environmental triggers can aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. This could include the way you eat, your sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication and exercise. A GP can assist you in finding ways to deal with these triggers, and then refer you for further assistance or to a dietitian to recommend nutritional changes.

Consult your GP for more information. Avoid nutritional supplements that don't have scientific backing or may be incompatible with certain medications.

Adults who believe they be suffering from ADHD should seek out a mental health professional such as psychologist or psychiatrist to get an assessment. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct physical examinations and take a detailed medical history to rule out any other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe the patient's behavior and apply the standard ratings scales. The therapist will assess the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as in determining whether they have a significant impact on a person's everyday life.

Therapists 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 skills that include the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of choices. Psychologists are able to prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.

Parents can also assist by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep habits and avoid stimulants. They should also encourage their child to socialize, and make an effort to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.

School staff can provide valuable information about the behavior and learning issues of the student, but they cannot diagnose ADHD or decide on treatment. These decisions are taken by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with the support of each other.