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How ADHD Is Diagnosed Your doctor will ask questions about your current symptoms as well as your previous experiences with ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history. People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later life. A significant event, like pregnancy or a breakup, triggers awareness of the problem. Finding a diagnosis is the first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning. Characteristics Children who meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have significant difficulty waiting for a call and paying attention in school or in other environments. These issues can seriously affect their functioning at home, work, or school. The symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity should be present for at least 6 months and be significantly greater than what is expected for the child's age and development level. They must be causing major problems at school, work, home and in relationships. Being diagnosed with ADHD requires an extensive clinical assessment by a qualified health care professional. This may include a physical exam and checking for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health professional will also examine the person's family history and review medical, psychiatric and academic records. Additionally, he will interview the person about the symptoms they are experiencing. For children, the questions are usually geared toward their age, and parents can be interviewed too. The provider will use the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in children and adults as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). He or she will examine the patient's current symptoms as well as past behavior, and look at how they impact their family, social, and professional lives. If please click the next webpage is possible, the therapist will also examine the person's school and childhood experiences. When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will be able to determine whether or not they suffer from a co-occurring mental health condition and ask whether the person has any family history of ADHD. People who have family members who suffer from ADHD are more likely to have it themselves. If a doctor suspects that someone is suffering from ADHD, they will perform an entire clinical examination. This involves examining the patient's current symptoms and asking them to keep a journal every day of their symptoms over the course of several weeks. He or she may also ask the person about any other medical conditions they may have, and then use the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if the individual has any of the ADHD criteria. Diagnosis Many health care providers who are interested in ADHD or have a specialization in mental illness can test and diagnose the disorder. This includes clinical psychologists and nurse practitioners, physician assistants psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and. Some family doctors diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They might refer adults for a comprehensive evaluation. A thorough medical exam that includes an evaluation of hearing and sight, is the first step towards diagnosing ADHD. Additionally, a doctor may recommend a brain scan known as an EEG-Based Assessment Aid or NEBA to measure the amount of theta and beta waves in the brain. This type of brain scan is a safe, noninvasive method of screening people for ADHD. In an interview with the individual the examiner will review the person's medical and psychiatric history going back to childhood, in addition to his present symptoms and coping strategies. 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). The doctor will request teachers and other professionals who spend a lot of time with children to fill out checklists or questionnaires. They may also ask parents to complete these forms. For adults, he or she is likely to discuss marriage with spouses and other close friends and also co-workers and may also interview a family member who knows 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 for how long the symptoms have been present, and whether they are causing difficulties at home, school, work or in other aspects of life. The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that share symptoms with ADHD such as bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. He or she should also check for physical causes for the individual's symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or sleep disorders. A thorough examination will also look at the person's social, emotional and family background. Treatment Children suffering from ADHD need to learn how to manage their symptoms. Family members can aid them by encouraging school staff to observe the child's progress, giving positive feedback, and being flexible and patient. They can also teach the child relaxation techniques and calming techniques, such as yoga or meditation. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can improve the ability of many children suffering from ADHD to focus and concentrate. They should stay away from sugary foods and drinks that can aggravate their symptoms. They should also ensure they get enough sleep. ADHD symptoms can persist throughout the adolescent years, and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulties at work or in relationships. A doctor will conduct an evaluation to determine if someone is suffering from ADHD and the severity of it. The evaluation consists of an examination of the mind as well as a physical exam and interviews with the individual, his or parents and spouses or partners and other people who are familiar with the person. The provider may ask the person to list their symptoms and how they impact them. The doctor might also employ ratings scales and other tests to verify that the person has met the standard criteria for ADHD. They can inquire about medical conditions that could mimic ADHD symptoms, like seizures and thyroid disorders. If a person is identified as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to control symptoms. The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD, both in children and adults. These medications can trigger adverse effects. One should only use these drugs under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. Tell your doctor about the medications you take. Certain medications can interact with stimulants and cause dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD need to try a variety of types and dosages of medication before finding one that is suitable for them. Prevention In some instances it is possible to reduce exposure to environmental triggers can help to prevent ADHD symptoms. These triggers may include sleep and diet and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can help you on how to control triggers and refer you to a dietitian to get nutrition advice or other assistance. Children can also be helped by following the same routines, limiting caffeine and sugar and taking regular vitamins and mineral supplements (consult your GP). Beware of supplements for your diet that do not have scientific backing or may be incompatible with certain medications. Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should see an expert in mental health, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist to establish a diagnosis. The doctor will look over medical records, perform a physical examination and conduct a thorough medical history to rule out other possible reasons for the symptoms. The therapist will discuss the symptoms with the patient, observe their behavior and apply standardized ratings scales. The therapist will also examine the severity and frequency of the core ADHD symptoms, and whether they cause significant impairment in the person's life. Therapists may work with a patient and their family members to improve parenting skills, teach time management and other techniques for organizing. They may also train the patient in metacognitive abilities which includes identifying and changing “thinking distortions” that can cause negative moods or the perception of a lack of options. Psychologists can prescribe certain medications and collaborate with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment. Parents can assist by offering a safe, loving home, establishing clear expectations and rewards, encouraging an excellent sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. They should encourage their child to interact with others and build a healthy relationship between them and their loved ones. School staff can provide valuable information on behavior and learning problems in the student however they are unable to diagnose ADHD or make decisions regarding treatment. The student's parents and health care provider have to make these decisions, with the assistance of the teacher.