How adhd diagnosis in adult Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. He will also review your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. An event that is significant, such as pregnancy or a breakup is a trigger for awareness of the issue. Finding a diagnosis is the first step to managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
While many children struggle with staying still, waiting their turn and paying attention in school or in other settings, children who meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems to the extent that hinders their performance at home, school or work. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must be present for at least six months and must be significantly more than what is typical for the child's age or development level. They should also be causing significant issues at school, at work, home and in relationships.
A certified health professional must conduct a clinical evaluation to diagnose ADHD. This could include a physical exam and checking for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as depression or thyroid disease. The health care professional will also look over the patient's medical, mental health, and academic records. In addition, the doctor will ask the patient questions about his or her symptoms. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents can be interviewed.
The physician will follow American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are described in DSM-5 the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will look at the person's behavior in the past and present and how it affects their social, professional and family life. If possible, the therapist will also examine the person's school and childhood experiences.
When evaluating adults, a healthcare professional will determine if they suffer from mental health issues that is co-occurring, as well as whether there is a history of ADHD in the family. Family members of those with ADHD are more likely to have it themselves.
If a health care provider suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD and is concerned about it, they will conduct an extensive clinical assessment. This includes reviewing the person's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a journal every day of their symptoms over the course of several weeks. The doctor may also inquire about any other issues they have, and use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the individual is in compliance with any of the ADHD criteria.
Diagnosis
Many health care professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can conduct screenings and determine the severity of the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, psychiatric nurses and psychiatrists. Family physicians may also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and might refer adults to specialists for a comprehensive assessment.
A thorough medical examination that includes an evaluation of sight and hearing, is the first step to diagnosing ADHD. A specialist may recommend a brain scan called an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to measure the amount of beta and theta waves in the brain. This type of scan is a safe, noninvasive method for screening individuals for ADHD.
The doctor will go over the patient's medical history, including his psychiatric and medical history that dates to his childhood. The examiner will also review the individual's current symptoms as well as 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 teens and children being evaluated for ADHD, the doctor will likely request teachers and other individuals who spend much time with the child to fill out checklists or questionnaires. He or she might also request parents to fill out these forms. For adults, they will often talk to spouses and other close friends, as well as colleagues, and may want to interview relatives who know 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. They will also determine the length of time the symptoms have been present and if they are causing difficulties at home, school or at work, or in other areas of life.
The mental health professional should also look for other disorders which share symptoms with ADHD like depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. He or she should also look for any physical causes of the person's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep problems. A thorough screening will also look at the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Families can support this by encouraging the school staff to watch their child's behavior, giving positive feedback, and showing flexible and patient. They can also help teach relaxation and calming methods such as meditation or yoga. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet can boost the ability of a lot of children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks that can make their symptoms worse. They must also get enough rest.
ADHD symptoms can persist throughout adolescents, and sometimes into adulthood. Adults may experience 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 as well as a physical examination and interviews with the person, his or her parents, a spouse or partner and other family members who know the person well. The provider may ask for an inventory of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. He or she can also use rating scales and other tests to determine if the person meets typical criteria for ADHD. They can also ask about any medical conditions that could be a cause of ADHD symptoms, such as seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If a person is diagnosed as having ADHD, medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children and adults. These drugs are likely to cause adverse negative effects, therefore one should only take them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. Inform your doctor about the medications you take. Certain drugs can interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous side effects. Many people with ADHD need to test different dosages and types of medication before they find one that works.
Prevention
In some instances, reducing exposure to triggers from the environment can help in preventing ADHD symptoms. These can include diet, sleeping habits, family structure, medication and exercise. A GP can help you in finding ways to control triggers and suggest an dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Children can also be assisted by following the same routines as well as limiting sugar and caffeine, and taking regular vitamins and minerals supplements (consult your GP). Avoid dietary supplements without scientific evidence or that could interfere with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should see an expert in mental health, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, conduct an examination of the body and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will speak to the patient, observe the person's behavior in different environments and apply the standard rating scales. The therapist will assess the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms as well as whether they have an impact on the person's daily life.
A therapist can collaborate with a patient and their family to improve parenting, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They can also instruct the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of having fewer alternatives. Psychologists can also prescribe certain medications and collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide comprehensive care.
Parents can help by offering a safe and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting a good sleep hygiene, and avoiding stimulants. They should encourage their child to be social and build a healthy relationship between them and their partner.
Staff at the school can provide valuable information about issues with learning and behavior in a child however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment decisions. These decisions are taken by the student's parents, health care provider, and teacher with support of each other.