How to Diagnose ADHD
The process of diagnosing ADHD requires a great deal of information. Your doctor will examine your symptoms and medical history, and then use standard ADHD ratings scales. They will also check for other problems that may be contributing to the symptoms of your child or adult like sleep disorders, thyroid problems, depression or alcohol abuse.
ADHD symptoms are a major issue in family and school and last for at least six months to be diagnosed.
Signs and symptoms
A healthcare professional has to take a careful look at a patient before diagnosing ADHD. The doctor will inquire about symptoms, check medical, social and family background, examine recent and previous medical and mental health issues and conduct a physical exam. The doctor may request tests to rule out depression or anxiety conditions that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
A person with ADHD is more likely than other people to have difficulty concentrating for extended durations of time. This can impact the academics and other essential tasks. They are more prone to getting distracted by people, activities or objects around them. They are unable to follow instructions and retaining specifics, as well as meeting deadlines. They may be easily annoyed by criticism or set unrealistic expectations for themselves, which could lead to failure and disappointments.
Symptoms of ADHD vary by person and can be mild, moderate, or severe. The mild symptoms aren't a hindrance to the daily routine or relationships. In the case of severe symptoms, they can cause serious problems at work and home. People with ADHD typically suffer from symptoms throughout their lives. It is more common in children, but a few adults are not diagnosed because they are able to manage the symptoms.
For children with ADHD, the doctor will conduct a thorough exam including hearing and vision tests. He or she will talk with the child, the parents and the teachers about their behaviour and habits and may also request a brain imaging study to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms like an MRI or CT scan.
A psychiatric examination is usually done by a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, clinical social worker or psychologist. The evaluator will ask about the person's symptoms, how they impact their life and work, and take into consideration the family's background and education. He or she will also review the person's mental and medical history, and also talk to other family members and acquaintances to build a complete picture.
The evaluator will decide if the person has the predominantly inattentive presentation of ADHD, the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type or both. The inattentive presentation is more common among girls and affects all ages, while the hyperactive-impulsive type is more common in boys and younger children.
Triggers
It is a great idea if your child is always daydreaming or has difficulty focussing on schoolwork or other tasks at home, or is easily distracted by friends. ADHD is a brain-based condition and children who suffer from it have trouble paying attention and controlling their behavior and being organized. It can affect children in a variety of ways and can cause issues at school, home as well as in their relationships with family members and their peers.
Before you take your child to visit a doctor, begin by taking notes and watching how they behave. A good psychiatrist or psychologist will analyze various symptoms and signs to determine if your child has ADD/ADHD. They will also consider your child's age and developmental level. A child who is diagnosed with ADD must exhibit more than 6 signs (or 5 in older teens) of inattention for a minimum of six months and these symptoms are a hindrance to everyday functioning. The signs of ADHD include fumbling or talking, tapping or any other continuous movement and failing to follow through with instructions chores, classroom or workplace tasks.
A professional will also inquire what the impact of these behaviors has been on your child's life in general. They will be interested in knowing whether they are struggling with their schoolwork or other activities, have difficulty maintaining romantic relationships or friendships, and are frequently late for appointments. They will also take a look at the medical history of your child and any medications they are currently taking, since certain medications can trigger symptoms of ADHD.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults is trickier because the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is specifically designed to identify children. The most reliable method to diagnose ADHD for adults is by a clinical interview conducted by an expert who has worked with the disorder. They won't hurry through the process and take their time. They typically use scans and computer programs of the brain to examine the structure of your child's brain.
Recognizing triggers is the initial step to tackling ADHD. Once you have identified what triggers your symptoms you can take actions that will help you avoid these triggers. For example you can limit screen time, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular sleep time.
Diagnosis
The first thing you should do if you suspect that you may have ADHD is to seek a professional diagnosis. Many medical professionals are specially trained to evaluate ADHD in adults. When selecting a doctor be sure to inquire about his training and experience in dealing with adult ADHD.
Your doctor will use Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), fifth edition, to make a diagnosis. They want to determine if you suffer from various symptoms that have been present for at least six months and interfere with your everyday life whether at home, at work or socially. These include: inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, difficulty sitting still or waiting your turn, trouble organizing activities, making careless mistakes, problems with schoolwork or work, and difficulties forming close relationships.
The examination will also examine other conditions that may be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. These include learning disorders as well as mood disorders such as anxiety or depression. Head injuries and other medical problems are also considered. Your doctor may want to check your family history to determine if were diagnosed with ADHD when you were a child.
Since people who suffer from ADHD are often unable to form close relationships, it's crucial to include information from family members. Other people who spend lots of time with you, like teachers or scout and religious coaches, leaders and coworkers, could also provide valuable information. These people can give valuable information to your doctor, such as how you interact with them or whether you have any issues in these relationships.
A doctor is likely to request you to complete questionnaires and conduct an interview. Computer programs, like continuous tests of performance or brain scans using SPECT, can be used to assess impulsivity and attention.
Because ADHD can be caused by stress and stress, you and your doctor will talk about your life to see whether there are any major problems with your relationships or work. If you have a partner or spouse you might want to consider beginning therapy for couples as well. Together with your physician, you must find the best treatment strategy for you. This can include lifestyle changes, counseling, and medication.
Treatment
The good news is that treatment for ADHD can aid you or your child manage symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life. There are find more info for treatment that include therapy and medication.
It's important to work with a mental health professional who is specialized in ADHD. They will provide you with an accurate diagnosis, develop an appropriate treatment plan, and teach you coping skills to manage your symptoms. They also can work with your child's teachers to help support their academic and behavioral needs at school.
The majority of teenagers and children with ADHD can be successfully treated through combining behavioral therapy with medication. The type of medication and dosage can differ from one individual to another. It can take some time to find a dosage and medication that is suitable for you or your child. Talk to your doctor about various options for medication and ask for samples. This means you can test the medications to determine which ones work best and have the least adverse negative effects.
Adults who have untreated ADHD might experience difficulties at work or in their relationships. They may have difficulty keeping their job, interacting with colleagues, or meeting financial obligations. They are often afflicted with depression and anxiety as well. A doctor will evaluate the person's mental and emotional health and moods. The doctor might suggest an evaluation for mood disorders or other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
During the appointment, the doctor is going to listen carefully to the account of you or your child. They might ask about family and social life and how the symptoms impact your daily life and how they have changed over time. They may ask for information from teachers and relatives to gain a full picture. The doctor is likely to recommend a thorough physical exam which includes urine and blood tests. The doctor may also recommend brain imaging.
If you suspect that you or your child may be suffering from ADHD begin talking to your primary physician. They can refer to a psychiatrist or psychologist who are experts in treating ADHD. You should also consult your health insurance to confirm that the professionals you're considering employing are covered. If not, consider a mental health insurance plan such as BetterHelp.