ADHD Diagnosis
Children with ADHD struggle to remain still paying attention, and are often in impulsive ways. The symptoms of ADHD have been evident for six months or more and are more severe than what is expected for their age.
Experts utilize questionnaires, interviews with teachers and parents, and school performance reports to determine ADHD. They also take into consideration the patient's history and any mental health conditions.
Diagnosing ADHD
For those who suffer from ADHD A diagnosis can bring relief and a sense of understanding. But getting an official diagnosis may be emotional, especially if a person doesn't plan to use medication as part of their treatment.
A specialist in diagnosing ADHD will review the history of your child or you and symptoms. They will inquire about the symptoms' onset and whether they have gotten worse over time. They'll also assess the development of your child or yourself, mental health and lifestyle. They may also conduct interviews with coaches, teachers and other professionals who know your or your child well.
The objective is to determine if you or your child has symptoms that meet the criteria set out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V)1. That includes six or more ADHD symptoms that significantly interfere with daily functioning and can't be explained by other causes such as issues at school or at home poor nutrition, or medical disorders such as sleep or anxiety.
Your doctor will also look at the behavior and performance of your child in the past, in addition to the DSM-V Criteria. They'll look at how long it takes you or your child to complete tasks and also their tendency to make careless mistakes, and if they're having trouble sitting still. They'll also determine whether your child or you has a history of depression or anxiety. These disorders are often coexist alongside ADHD.
Other factors that may affect the results of an ADHD evaluation are whether you or your child has a history of physical trauma or birth complications or an abnormal thyroid gland. They will also look for other conditions, such as bipolar disorder or learning disabilities.
In a face-to-face ADHD evaluation either you or your child could take one of a variety of ADHD tests, including the Neuropsychiatric-EEG Based Assessment Aid System (NEBA). This instrument analyzes brain wave patterns and is affixed for children ages 6 through 17. It's important to note that ADHD testing is only a small part of a larger assessment.
The symptoms of ADHD
People with ADHD have a different way of using brain networks to send and relay messages. They are unable to focus their attention and controlling their behavior which may lead to issues at home and at school. They tend to make decisions without considering the consequences or the needs of others. They often make careless mistakes at work and at school. The disorder is diagnosed when symptoms occur for more than six months and affect daily functioning at school as well as in the community.
Doctors employ ADHD symptom checklists and standardized behavior ratings scales to determine if an individual meets the criteria for a diagnose. They may also ask the patient to explain their problems in their own words. They may also interview those who have a relationship with the patient, for example, a sibling or spouse for adults or a teacher or coach when they are children. These interviews can give valuable information that are not available through tests or questionnaires.
The symptoms of ADHD can appear at any age however, the condition typically begins in the earliest years of childhood. Doctors must consider a person's problems from their childhood when determining a diagnosis. They may need to look at the school records from the past or talk to the patient's parents or teachers regarding the symptoms when they were a child.
Many adults with ADHD aren't diagnosed as they reacted to their issues as children by using techniques or strategies to learn. When they are struggling to balance work with family, work, and other obligations, their symptoms can become more evident. Women and girls are better in hiding their symptoms than men and boys, which can make the diagnosis more difficult.
Researchers believe that while the cause of ADHD has not been identified but genetics and environmental factors may contribute to the development of ADHD. The prenatal exposure to alcohol, nicotine or drugs may increase the chance of developing the disorder. The early loss of attachment and trauma can also trigger the disorder. The symptoms are caused by chemical changes in the nervous system that occur during critical developmental periods.
Medication for ADHD
In a typical assessment, a health professional will interview either you or your child. They will ask questions about the symptoms you or your child are experiencing, how often they occur and what problems they can cause in your life. They may also speak to other people, like family members, teachers and coaches, in order to gain more insight into your or child's behavior.
The doctor may refer to a list of ADHD symptoms to determine if you or your child meet the diagnostic criteria for this disorder. They may also consider other disorders like anxiety and mood disorders that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
Adults with ADHD who are diagnosed with the condition typically receive prescription medication to manage their symptoms. Products that stimulate the brain, such as those containing amphetamine and methylphenidate are believed to regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. These medications can also improve the capacity of individuals to make smart decisions and to think clearly. Other options include non-stimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. These medications are not as powerful as stimulants, however they are effective for children who are in a position to not take stimulants due to medical issues or severe adverse effects.
Treatment for children with ADHD is mostly dependent on parents playing an active part in therapy sessions. Parents learn to communicate more effectively with their child and also how to help them at school and at home. Therapists can also instruct parents on methods for managing stress as well as parenting skills that can help them cope with the demands of a child with ADHD.
Some people with ADHD may also suffer from co-occurring psychiatric disorders, like anxiety and depression, which need to be treated at the same time as the ADHD symptoms. Because of this, a psychiatrist or psychologist who specializes in treating ADHD often works closely with a mental health professional who can treat these coexisting issues. Therapists can assist people suffering from ADHD to develop coping and organizing skills that improve their relationships and life quality. They may also recommend classes which teach problem-solving as well as communication skills.
Treatment for ADHD
There are many different treatments available for ADHD in adults and children. Your healthcare provider can assist you in determining the best treatment plan for your child or adult. Treatment options include medication or behavioral therapy, as well as family counseling. Psychoeducation and support groups are also beneficial.
Your child's behavior will be evaluated by your health care provider to determine if they suffer from ADHD. how is adhd diagnosed in adults might inquire about your child's behavior at school, at home, and in social situations. They will also review your child's medical history and mood, and check for any other conditions that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD like learning disorders, seizure disorders, sleep apnea issues with vision and hearing and thyroid issues.
The most common type of ADHD is one that manifests as inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. This presentation is more common among children in the early years, and it's usually easy to recognize because kids who have this type of disorder often have trouble concentrating, talk too much or have trouble sitting still. They aren't able to pay attention at school, as well as in other settings, such as activities for the community and family.
Other types of ADHD are more difficult to diagnose because they often present differently in different settings. Some adults may show inattention, but not the hyperactivity or the impulsivity that is seen in younger people. These adults might have trouble maintaining their jobs, staying on task or managing relationships.
Some people suffering from ADHD suffer from anxiety or depression in addition to their ADHD symptoms. These individuals require a separate treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy). It is important that your mental health professional examines these other symptoms as well as the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. They can be taken by inhalation or via a nasal spray (liquid) or patch. They are generally safe for most people, however there is a risk of adverse effects, such as a slowed heart rate, decreased appetite, and a change in mood in some people.
Some people with ADHD can be helped by taking a variety of other supplements or medications, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins C and E. These can help improve concentration and reduce the irritability.