ADHD Diagnosis
Children with ADHD are not able to remain still, focus or behave in impulsive ways. The symptoms of ADHD have been evident for six months or more and are more severe than what is normal for children of their age.
Experts employ questionnaires, interviews with teachers and parents and school performance reports to diagnose ADHD. They also consider the history of the patient as well as any other mental health problems.
Diagnosing ADHD
A diagnosis can be a relief for people with ADHD. It can also provide a sense of acceptance. However, getting an official diagnosis may be a stressful experience, particularly when a person doesn't intend to use medication as a part of their treatment.
A trained professional to identify ADHD will examine the symptoms and history of your child or yourself. They'll ask questions about when symptoms first began and if they've become worse over time. They'll also assess the development of your child, mental health as well as family and lifestyle. They may also speak with coaches, teachers or other adults who are familiar with your child.
The goal is to determine if your or your child's symptoms that meet the criteria laid out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (DSM-V)1. adhd diagnosis adult includes six or more symptoms related to ADHD that interfere with daily functioning, and cannot be explained by any other factors such as issues at home or school, poor nutrition, anxiety, or sleep disorders.
In addition to the DSM-V criteria Your doctor will take into account your child's previous behavior and performance. They'll look at the time it takes you or your child to complete tasks, their tendency to make careless mistakes, and whether they are unable to sit still. They'll also look into whether you or your child have any history of depression, anxiety, or mood disorders, which often occur in conjunction with ADHD.
A history of physical trauma, birth complications or an abnormal thyroid gland could affect the results of an ADHD evaluation. They'll also look for signs of other conditions, such as bipolar disorder or learning disabilities.
During a face-to-face ADHD assessment, you or your child could take one of a variety of ADHD tests, like the Neuropsychiatric-EEG Based Assessment Aid System (NEBA). The instrument tests brain waves and is approved for children aged 6-17. It's important to note that ADHD testing is only one aspect of a larger assessment.
ADHD symptoms
People who suffer from ADHD use brain networks differently to send and relay information. They are unable to focus their attention and controlling their behavior, which can cause problems at home and at school. They tend to make choices without thinking about the consequences or needs of others. They commit many naive mistakes at work and at school. When symptoms persist for more than six months and interfere with the school day and in the community, the condition is diagnosed.
Doctors utilize ADHD symptom checklists and standardized behavior ratings scales to determine whether a person fits the criteria for diagnosis. Patients are often asked to describe their problem in their own words. They may also interview people who are familiar with the patient like siblings or spouses for adults, or a schoolteacher or coach for children. These interviews often provide valuable insight that can't be gathered from questionnaires or tests.
The signs of ADHD can be seen at any age, but the condition usually starts during childhood. When diagnosing a patient doctors must take into account the problems they had in their early years. They can request old school records or talk to the patient's parents or teachers about their symptoms as an infant.
Many adults suffering from ADHD are not diagnosed because they dealt with their problems as children using strategies or tricks to learn. The signs may be more apparent as they take on more responsibilities in adulthood, as they struggle to manage work, family and other obligations. Girls and women can hide their symptoms more effectively than men and boys. This can make diagnosis more difficult.
Researchers believe that although the exact cause of ADHD has not been identified but genetics and environmental factors may contribute to its development. The prenatal exposure to nicotine, alcohol or other drugs can increase the likelihood of developing the disorder. Trauma and early loss of attachment could cause this disorder. The symptoms are caused by chemical changes in the nervous system, which occur during critical developmental periods.
Medication for ADHD
In a typical evaluation the health professional will conduct an interview with you or your child. They will ask you questions about the symptoms you or your child has been experiencing, how often they occur, and what issues they cause in your life. They may also talk to other people in your life, such as teachers, family members and coaches to help them gain clearer picture of your your child's behavior.
The doctor may refer to a list of ADHD symptoms to determine whether you or your child meets the diagnostic criteria for this disorder. They will also consider other disorders, such as anxiety and mood disorders that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
Adults with ADHD who are diagnosed with the disorder typically receive prescription medication to treat their symptoms. Stimulants such as products containing methylphenidate or amphetamine appear to regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These medications may also improve the ability of some adults to make good decisions and think clearly. Other options include nonstimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. These medications work slower than stimulants and are usually effective if you or your child are unable to take stimulants due other medical problems or severe adverse effects.
Treatment of children with ADHD is largely dependent on parents taking an active part in therapy sessions. Parents learn to communicate better with their child, and how to support their child at school and at home. Therapists can also help parents learn methods for managing stress as well as parenting skills that can assist them in coping with the demands of a child with ADHD.
Certain people suffering from ADHD have psychiatric issues that are co-occurring like anxiety and depression, that need to be treated simultaneously with the ADHD symptoms. Because of this, an experienced psychologist or psychiatrist who is specialized in treating ADHD frequently works in conjunction with a mental health professional who can treat these coexisting issues. Therapists can help people with ADHD to develop coping and organizing abilities that improve their relationships and quality. They may also recommend classes that teach problem-solving and communication skills.
Treatment for ADHD
Many different treatments are available for both adults and children with ADHD. Your doctor can help you determine the best treatment plan for your child or adult. Treatment options include counseling for families, medication therapy and behavioral therapy. Support groups and psychoeducation are also helpful.
Your child's behavior will be evaluated by your health care provider to determine if they have ADHD. They might ask about your child's behavior at school, at home and social situations. They'll also examine your child's medical history as well as mood, and look for other conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD like learning disorders, seizure disorders, sleep apnea hearing and vision problems, and thyroid problems.
The majority of people with this kind of ADHD exhibit problems with inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. This kind of disorder is more prevalent in children who are young. It's easy to spot as these children fidget a lot and talk frequently, or have difficulty sitting still. They struggle to focus at school and in other settings, like social and family activities.
It isn't easy to recognize other types of ADHD because they present in different ways. For example there are some adults who show inattention but don't have the impulsivity or hyperactivity which is usually seen in younger people. They may have difficulty maintaining their jobs and staying on track or managing relationships.
Some people with ADHD develop depression or anxiety in addition to their ADHD symptoms. These individuals require a separate treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy). It is crucial that your mental health professional assesses these other symptoms along with the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD. They can be administered by either mouth or via a nose spray (liquid) or patch. The majority of people are safe from any adverse side effects. However, some might experience a slower pulse rate, less appetite, or a worsening mood.
Certain people suffering from ADHD can be assisted by taking a range of other supplements or medications including omega-3 fatty acids as well as vitamins C and E. These supplements can aid in improving concentration and reduce anxiety.