How to Diagnose ADHD
The process of determining ADHD requires a lot information. Your doctor will look at your symptoms and medical history, and then use the standard ADHD ratings scales. They will also check for other problems that may be responsible for the symptoms of your child or adult for example, sleep disorders, thyroid problems and depression, as well as alcohol abuse.
ADHD symptoms can be a significant issue in family and school, and persist for at least six months to be diagnosed.
Signs and symptoms
Before diagnosing ADHD, the health professional must take a careful look at the patient. The doctor will inquire about the symptoms, review medical, social and family history, review the past and present mental health and medical problems and conduct a physical examination. The doctor may recommend tests to rule out depression or anxiety disorders which can cause similar symptoms as ADHD.
A person suffering from ADHD is more likely than other people to have trouble concentrating for long durations of time. This can impact the schoolwork or other tasks. They are more prone to get distracted by other people, activities or objects that are around them. They have trouble following instructions, remembering specifics and meeting deadlines. They can be easily irritated by criticism or set unrealistic expectations for themselves, which could result in disappointments and failures.
The symptoms of ADHD are different from one person to another and could be mild moderate, severe, or mild. Mild symptoms don't hinder the daily routine or relationships. The more severe symptoms can lead to serious issues at home and at work. ADHD is a condition that affects people throughout their life. It is more common in children, but a few adults are not diagnosed because they are able to manage the symptoms.
For children who suffer from ADHD the doctor will do a thorough exam including hearing and vision tests. The doctor will interview the child as well as their parents and their teachers about their habits and behavior. They can also request an imaging study of the brain to rule out other possible causes, such as MRI or CT scan.
A psychiatric evaluation is typically carried out by a psychologist clinical social worker or nurse practitioner. The evaluator will ask about the person's symptoms, how they impact their life and work, and consider the family's background and education. The evaluator will also review the person's mental and medical history, and speak with other family members and friends to create a full 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 your child who is always in a state of mind, struggling to concentrate on schoolwork or other tasks at home, and seems easily distracted by their friends then it's time to seek assistance. ADHD is a brain disorder that is a problem for children who have trouble staying focused, controlling their behavior or staying organized. It affects children's lives in many ways, and can cause problems at school, home and with family members and classmates.
Before you take your child to see a doctor, begin by taking notes and watching how they behave. A good psychiatrist or psychologist will look for a mix of symptoms and signs to determine whether your child suffers from ADD or ADHD. They will also take into consideration your child's developmental stage and age. A diagnosis of ADD is given when the child is younger than 16 years old and has more than 6 symptoms of inattention (or 5 for older teens) for at least six months, and these symptoms interfere with everyday functioning. ADHD symptoms include fidgeting, talking, tapping or performing other repetitive movements, as well as failing to finish tasks, follow instructions or perform chores.
A professional will inquire about the impact of these behaviors on your child's life in general. They will want to know if they have trouble with their academics or other activities, have difficulty maintaining relationships with friends or romantic partners, and are frequently late for appointments. They will also examine the medical history of your child and any medications they are currently taking, because certain medications can cause symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults is more difficult because the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is specifically designed to identify children. The most reliable method for diagnosing ADHD in adulthood is a clinical interview with a specialist in the field, who will take their time in the evaluation and not rush the process. Most often, they'll utilize computer programs and brain scans to determine the structure of the brain of your child.
Identifying your triggers is among the most important steps you can take to manage your ADHD. Once you have identified the triggers that cause your symptoms to increase you can take action to avoid them, like limiting the time you spend on screens and eating a healthy diet and scheduling regular sleeping times.
Diagnosis
If you suspect ADHD the first step is to obtain an expert diagnosis. Medical professionals are often equipped with special training to assess ADHD in adults. When choosing a medical professional, ask about his or their education and experience with adult ADHD.
Your doctor will refer you to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-5) to assist in making the diagnosis. They want to know if you've various symptoms that have been present for at minimum six months and are interfering with your daily 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 evaluation will also consider other conditions that might mimic the symptoms of ADHD. These include learning disorders, mood disorders such as depression or anxiety, thyroid conditions as well as head injuries and other medical problems. Your doctor may want to examine your family history to determine if were diagnosed with ADHD as a kid.
Since people who suffer from ADHD often have difficulties forming close relationships, it is important to include information from family members. Other people who spend much time with you, like teachers as well as religious and scout leaders, coaches, and co-workers, can also offer important information. These people can provide valuable information to your doctor, including how you interact with them, or whether you have any issues in these relationships.
A doctor will usually ask you to fill out questionnaires and conduct an interview. Computer programs, such as continuous tests of performance or brain scans with SPECT, can be used to measure attention and impulsivity.
Your doctor and you will discuss your personal life to determine if you have any major issues at work or in your relationships. If you have a partner or spouse, you may consider starting couples therapy as well. Together, you and your doctor must find the best treatment plan for you. This may include lifestyle changes as well as counseling or medication.
Treatment
The good news is that treatment for ADHD can help your child or you manage the symptoms and lead an active and fulfilling life. There are several treatments, including medication and therapy.
It's crucial to consult with a professional who is an ADHD specialist. They will provide you with an accurate diagnosis, design an appropriate treatment plan, and teach you coping strategies to manage your symptoms. They can also collaborate with your child's teachers to help support their behavior and learning needs at the school.
Most children and teens with ADHD can be treated using a an ad-hoc combination of therapy for behavior and medication. The type of medication and dosage can vary from one person to another. It can take time to determine the appropriate dosage and the drug that is most effective for you or your child. Ask your doctor for samples and talk about various options for medication. You can then test the different drugs to determine which are most effective and have less adverse effects.
Adults suffering from untreated ADHD may have issues at work or with relationships. They may have difficulty keeping their job, interacting with colleagues, or completing financial obligations. They are often afflicted with depression and anxiety as well. A doctor will evaluate the person's mental and emotional health as well as moods. The doctor might suggest an evaluation for mood disorders or other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD.
During the consultation for diagnosis, the provider will listen carefully to your your child's story. They may ask about your family or social life. They might ask how the symptoms impact the way you or your child is functioning. adhd diagnosis in adult may ask teachers and relatives for more information to get an accurate picture. The doctor is likely to suggest a full physical examination which includes urine and blood tests. The doctor might also suggest brain imaging.
If you suspect that you or your child might be suffering from ADHD Begin talking to your primary physician. They may refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist or other mental health professional who is specialized in treating ADHD. Make sure to check with your health insurance to see if the professionals you are considering using are covered. If not, you may want to consider a mental health insurance plan like BetterHelp.