How to Diagnose ADHD
The process of diagnosing ADHD requires a lot information. Your doctor will go over your symptoms and history and utilize standardized ADHD rating scales. They will also check for other conditions that could be causing the symptoms of your child or adult, such as thyroid issues, sleep disorders, depression or addiction to drugs.
To be considered as diagnosed, ADHD symptoms must significantly impact family and school activities and last for at minimum six months.
Signs and symptoms
Before determining ADHD, medical professionals must examine the patient with care. The doctor will ask questions about the symptoms and review family medical, social, and histories, and examine the mental health of the person's current and prior and medical issues. The provider may order tests to rule-out depression, anxiety, or other disorders which can cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
Someone with ADHD is more likely to experience difficulties staying focused for long periods of time. This can impact schoolwork as well as other important tasks. They are more likely to get distracted by the things, people or activities around them. They often have trouble following instructions, remembering details and meeting deadlines. They may be easily irritated by criticism or have unrealistic expectations, which can lead them to disappointment and failure.
The symptoms of ADHD can differ from one person to another and could be mild or moderate, or even severe. Mild symptoms do not hinder a person's day-today activities or relationships, whereas severe symptoms can cause major difficulties at work and at home. ADHD is a condition that affects people throughout their life. It is more common during childhood, but some adults are not diagnosed because they are able to manage their symptoms.
For children who suffer from ADHD, the doctor will do an extensive exam that includes vision and hearing tests. The doctor may also inquire about the child parents, the child, and their teachers about their behavior and habits. They may also order an examination of the brain to rule out other possible causes, such as MRI or CT scan.
A psychiatric examination is usually conducted by a psychiatrist nurse practitioner, clinical social worker or psychologist. The examiner will inquire about the person's symptoms and how they impact their life and work, and will take into consideration the family's history and education. The evaluator will also look into the person's mental health and medical background and talk to other family members and friends to get a more 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
If you have children who are always snoozing, unable to focus on schoolwork or other activities at home, and is easily distracted by their peers then it's time to ask for help. ADHD is a brain disorder that affects children who have difficulty staying focused, controlling their behavior or staying organized. It can affect a child in a variety of ways, and cause issues at school, at home as well as in their relationships with their family and classmates.
Take notes and observe your child's behavior prior to you visit the doctor. A good psychiatrist or psychologist will analyze various signs and symptoms in order to determine if your child is suffering from ADD/ADHD. They will also consider the child's developmental stage as well as age. A child who is diagnosed with ADD has to show 6 or more symptoms (or 5 in teens older) of inattention for a minimum of six months, and these signs are a hindrance to everyday functioning. Symptoms of ADHD include fidgeting or talking, tapping or any other constant movement and a failure to follow through on instructions chores, school or work-related tasks.
A professional will also inquire how these behaviors have affected your child's daily life. They will want to know whether they are struggling with academics or other activities or have trouble maintaining romantic relationships or friendships, and are frequently late for appointments. They will also examine your child's past medical history and any medications they are currently taking, as some medications can trigger symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults is more difficult because the criteria used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is designed to diagnose children. The most reliable method for diagnosing ADHD in adulthood is to conduct a clinical interview with a specialist who specializes in the field, who will take their time in the evaluation and not rush the process. Often, they will also use computer programs and brain scans to determine the structure of your child's brain.
Finding triggers is the first step to tackling ADHD. Once Suggested Reading understand what triggers your symptoms to flare up, you can take steps to avoid them, like limiting the time you spend on screens and eating a healthy diet and establishing regular sleep times.
Diagnosis
If you suspect ADHD the first step is to seek a diagnosis from a professional. Medical professionals are often trained to evaluate ADHD in adults. When choosing a medical professional inquire about his or her education and experience with adult ADHD.
Your doctor will consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) to help you make the diagnosis. He or she will want to determine if you are suffering from multiple symptoms that manifest for six months and significantly affect your daily life 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 look at other conditions that might be similar to the symptoms of ADHD. These include learning disorders, mood disorders like anxiety or depression, thyroid conditions, head injuries and other medical problems. Your doctor may also evaluate your family history to determine whether you suffered from ADHD as an infant.
Because people with ADHD are often unable to form close relationships, it's crucial that your evaluation includes information from family members. Teachers or leaders from religious and Scout groups, coaches, co-workers and other people who interact with you may also offer valuable insight. These people can tell your doctor about how you interact with them and if there are particular issues you face in these relationships.
A doctor is likely to ask you to fill out questionnaires and conduct an interview. Sometimes computer programs, such as continuous performance tests or SPECT brain scans are used to assess attention and impulsivity.
Your doctor and you will discuss your life in order to determine if you have any significant problems at work or in your relationships. If you have a partner or spouse, you may consider starting therapy for couples as well. You and your physician must come up with the treatment plan that is suitable for you. This can include changes to your lifestyle, counseling and medication.
Treatment
Treatment for ADHD can help your child or you manage the symptoms and live a more productive life. There are a variety of options for treatment for ADHD, including medication and therapy.
It is crucial to work with a professional who is an ADHD specialist. They can provide you with an accurate diagnosis, develop an appropriate treatment plan, and teach you coping strategies to manage your symptoms. They also can work with your child's teachers to help support their academic and behavioral needs at the school.
The majority of adolescents and children with ADHD can be successfully treated with the help of behavioral therapy with medication. The dosage and type of medication can differ from one individual to another. It can take a while to find the right dose and medication that works for your child or yourself. Ask your doctor for samples and talk about different medication options. You can then test the different medications to determine which are most effective and have fewer negative side consequences.
Adults who have untreated ADHD might have issues at work or in their relationships. They may struggle to keep their job, interacting with colleagues, or meeting financial obligations. They often struggle with depression and anxiety, as well. A health professional will examine the patient's mental and emotional history and moods. The provider may suggest a mood disorder evaluation or other conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
During the consultation, the provider will listen closely to the story of your child or yourself. They may ask questions about family and social activities as well as how the symptoms affect your or their daily functioning and how they've changed over time. They could request details from relatives and teachers to obtain a complete picture. The doctor will probably suggest a thorough physical examination, including blood and urine tests. The doctor might also suggest brain imaging.
Talk to your primary doctor If you think you or your child might be suffering from ADHD. They can refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional who specializes in treating ADHD. Make sure to check with your health insurance to see if the professionals you're considering using are covered. If not, consider a mental health coverage program like BetterHelp.