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Are ADHD Diagnoses The Greatest Thing There Ever Was?
How ADHD Is Diagnosed

Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any previous history of ADHD. He will also look over your family history.

A lot of people are diagnosed with ADHD later in the course of their lives. A major event, such as pregnancy or a breakup is a trigger for awareness of the problem. The first step to manage ADHD symptoms and improving function is to obtain a diagnosis.

Characteristics

While many children have trouble staying still, waiting for their turn and paying attention in schools or in other settings, children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD experience these problems in a way that hinders their performance at home, school or work. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity must be present for at least 6 months and be significantly more than what is typical for the child's age or development level. They must be causing major problems at school, work or at home, as well as in relationships.

Getting a diagnosis of ADHD requires an exhaustive clinical examination by a certified health professional. This could include a thorough physical examination and a review of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms like thyroid disease or depression. The health professional may also look over the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. In addition, he will ask the patient questions about the symptoms they are experiencing. Children are asked questions based on their age and parents may be interviewed.

The doctor will apply American Psychiatric Association clinical guidelines to diagnose ADHD in adults and children. These guidelines are laid out in DSM-5, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He or she will examine the patient's current symptoms as well as previous behavior, focusing on how they interfere with their family, social and professional lives. If possible the therapist may also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.

When conducting an assessment of adults, a doctor will consider whether they have mental health issues that is co-occurring, and the presence of ADHD in the family. Family members of those who have the disorder are more prone to develop it themselves.

If a health professional suspects that a patient has ADHD, he or she will provide the patient with an exhaustive clinical evaluation, including reviewing their current symptoms and requesting that they keep a daily journal of their symptoms for several weeks. The doctor will also ask about any other conditions the patient has and will consult the DSM-5 symptom guide to determine if they have any of the symptoms of ADHD.

Diagnosis

Many health professionals who are interested in ADHD or specialize in mental illness can screen and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists and physician assistants, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and. Some family doctors also diagnose ADHD in adolescents and children, and might refer adults to specialists for a thorough evaluation.

The first step in diagnosing ADHD is an extensive medical examination, including evaluation of vision and hearing. A specialist might also suggest an MRI scanner called an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to determine the intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a safe, noninvasive method to screen people for ADHD.

The examiner will review the patient's medical history including his medical and psychiatric history that dates to his childhood. The doctor will also discuss the person's 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).

For adolescents and children being evaluated for ADHD The doctor may request teachers and other individuals who spend much time with the child to fill out questionnaires or checklists. He or she may also ask parents to fill out these forms. Adults are often asked to speak to their spouses, coworkers, and other close friends. They might also wish 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. The doctor will determine how long symptoms have been present and whether they are causing impairment at home, in school, at work, or in any other area of life.

The mental health professional should also check for any other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD, such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder. The professional should also check for physical causes of the person's symptoms such as thyroid problems or sleep disorders. In addition, a thorough screening will also check the person's emotional, social and family history.

Treatment


Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid them by encouraging school staff to watch the child closely, providing positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also help teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming such as meditation or yoga. Many children suffering from ADHD benefit from regular physical exercise and a healthy diet, which can help enhance their ability to focus and concentrate. They should avoid foods that are high in sugar and drinks, which can worsen their symptoms. They should also sleep enough.

The symptoms of ADHD may persist throughout adolescence, and even into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties in their work or relationships. A health care provider will perform an evaluation to determine if a person has ADHD and the severity of it. This usually involves an examination of the mental health history along with a physical exam, and interviews with the person and their parents, spouse or life partner and others who know the person well. The healthcare provider might request a list of the person's symptoms and how they impact him or her. They can also use rating scales and other tests to confirm whether the person meets the standard criteria for ADHD. The doctor will also conduct a medical history of any medical issues that have a tendency to mimic the symptoms of ADHD, such as thyroid disorders and seizure disorder.

If a person is identified as having ADHD medications will be prescribed to control symptoms. The most popular are stimulants. medicines used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These medications can cause side effects. A person should only take these medications under the supervision of a doctor and with the prescription of a doctor. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. Certain drugs may interact with stimulants and trigger dangerous side effects. Many people suffering from ADHD have to test a variety of kinds and dosages of medications before settling on one that is suitable for them.

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In some instances it is possible to reduce exposure to triggers from the environment can aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers may include diet and sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can help you find ways to deal with these triggers, and then refer you for additional assistance or to a dietitian who can suggest changes in your diet.

Children can also be helped by keeping their routines the same by 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 ADHD should visit a mental health professional like a psychologist or psychiatrist, to establish a diagnosis. The doctor will conduct a thorough medical history, perform physical examination and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms. The therapist will talk to the patient, observe the patient's behavior in various settings and use standard rating scales. The therapist will take into consideration the extent and duration of the core ADHD-related symptoms as well in determining whether they have an impact on a person's everyday life.

A therapist can collaborate with a patient and their family members to improve parenting, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes the identification and correction of "thinking distortions" leading to negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists can prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide a comprehensive treatment.

Parents can help by providing a stable and loving home, setting clear expectations and rewards, promoting a good sleep hygiene, and refraining from stimulants. Parents must also encourage their child to socialize, and try to establish a healthy relationship with their partner.

The staff at the school may offer valuable information regarding behavior and learning issues in children however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. The student's parents and healthcare provider must make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.

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