ADHD Diagnosing
It can be tempting not to seek an evaluation for yourself or your child. A professional assessment can help you determine the extent of the symptoms and pinpoint the root of the problem.
Your doctor will use standardized ADHD ratings scales to go over your history. They'll also interview you and those in your life -- spouse or family members, as well as friends to get a personal perspective that self-tests or checklists don't provide.
Symptoms
If you suspect that your child might have ADHD Get an appointment with your health care provider. They may refer you to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, or pediatrician for more thorough evaluation or testing. Bring your child's school records to the appointment, as the provider will be interested in how your child compares to other children. The provider will use standardized ratings scales to determine the severity of symptoms and how long they've been present.
A comprehensive assessment will review your child's growth, family history of mental health problems and medical history. The doctor will also speak to you and the other key adults in your child's life, like teachers or coaches. Talk to your child about any problems you've observed in their behavior, such as not finishing homework or other assignments at school or home.
Children and teens typically have a limited attention span, and it's normal for them to lose their focus when playing games or engaging in activities. If your child is unable to remember things quickly, having difficulty following directions or making a few mistakes with their schoolwork, chores or work, it could be a sign they are suffering from ADHD.
Hyperactivity is another symptom of ADHD It's not uncommon for children to fidget or move around a lot in class or when playing with friends. At home, they may run or climb in unsuitable places or struggle to sit still for long periods of duration. They might blurt out answers or interrupt conversations, and they can't hold their breath waiting for their turn.
Inattentional ADHD is often misinterpreted as daydreaming, and it is difficult to recognize in adults who don't have symptoms of hyperactivity. Adults with this form of the disorder often don't meet symptom criteria for either the hyperactive/impulsive or combined type of ADHD, so providers assign an unspecified diagnosis.
Diagnosis
ADHD symptoms can affect the person's ability to function in everyday life at school, work or at home. They can also cause problems with social interaction and relationships. Many people who are experiencing these symptoms aren't aware that they suffer from an identifiable condition, and they may not seek help. Screening for ADHD can help identify the condition and allow a doctor to recommend treatments.
The test for ADHD involves a medical examination as well as a thorough interview with the patient and a variety of other tests and questionnaires. The screening is carried out by a psychologist, psychiatrist, psychotherapist, neurologist, or doctor who is trained to diagnose ADHD. Talk to your GP in case you think your child may have ADHD. They could refer your child to a specialist evaluation.
To determine a diagnosis, the healthcare professional will look over the patient's symptoms, medical history and treatment history. The healthcare provider will perform an examination of the body, conduct audio and vision screenings, and determine if there are any medical conditions which could explain the patient's symptomatology. They will utilize a combination of ADHD symptoms checklist as well as standardized behavioral rating scores and a thorough assessment. Patients will be asked to describe their symptoms and how they affect their lives, both at home and in school. The patient will be asked for information from close family members and friends.
A doctor can diagnose ADHD in children if they observe at least six symptoms of inattentiveness, and/or at least five symptoms of impulsivity or hyperactivity listed in the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. These symptoms have to be present for at least six month. They should be evident in at least two settings such as at school, home or workplace and be accompanied by significant impairment. The symptoms cannot be caused other physical or mental disorders.
Adults are more difficult to diagnose with ADHD because the ADHD diagnostic tools that are used for adolescents and children do not apply to adults. Some doctors will interview the patient as well as a close friend or sibling, but other doctors prefer specific psychological tests and computerized continuous performance tests that are designed for adults who suffer from ADHD.
Medication
If a person with ADHD is not treated, their symptoms may interfere significantly with family life, work or school, as well as social interactions. click for source reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. This improves the functioning. There are many different medications available and sometimes it takes several attempts to find the one that works for a particular individual. Therapy and behavior modification can be essential elements of treatment.
A specialist in diagnosing ADHD will perform an exhaustive assessment. She might refer the patient, depending on the results, to another health professional, such psychologist or psychiatrist. The doctor will review the patient's medical and mental background, and then employ standardized rating scales to assess ADHD symptoms. The doctor could also request someone who knows the patient well like a spouse or sibling for adults, or a coach, teacher or parent for children -to complete an interview form that includes specific questions pertaining to ADHD symptoms and their impact.
Different types of medication are available to treat ADHD. The doctor will discuss the best treatment options with the patient. For some, the most effective medication is stimulants, which work by increasing activity in areas of the brain that regulate behavior and attention. click for source prescribed drug is methylphenidate, available in immediate-release tablets as well as modified-release daily preparations.
Children with ADHD frequently have other health conditions that require evaluation, such as anxiety, depression or mood disorders. It is important that parents and children talk about these health issues with their doctor. Ideally, a person suffering from ADHD should see specialists for these issues all at once to ensure that they are working together to improve their functioning.
When you are beginning a medication it is essential to locate a healthcare provider with experience in treating ADHD. Consult a doctor who's practice is covered under your insurance for an opinion or call the National Resource Center for ADHD to find a list of qualified professionals. You can also call your local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness or CHADD to find the names of specialists in your area.
Treatment options
When a doctor suspects that someone has ADHD, he or she will ask them to explain their symptoms in detail. The evaluator will also go over the individual's medical, family and psychiatric history. During the interview, he'll be looking for symptoms that are listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). A physical exam may be advised to rule out medical reasons for the symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues.
It is important for the evaluator information from people who know the person well, such as teachers and family members. The evaluator could utilize questionnaires to inquire about the person's behavior and how it impacts their home and work life. The evaluator might also request a copy of the person's performance evaluations or other documents. If the person has an intimate relationship with a spouse or other close friends they could be interviewed by the evaluator. them too.
The evaluator will also want to understand how the ADHD symptoms of the individual affect their daily functioning in relation to relationships at school, work, and other social interactions. He or she might suggest a therapy for behavioral issues like cognitive behavior therapy or marital or family therapy. Behavioral therapy can teach a person practical skills for managing their symptoms and improving their daily functioning. For instance a therapist could help the person learn how to organize their possessions or schedule regular activities to improve their time management.
Depending on the situation, the evaluator might suggest a variety or neuropsychological tests to get a more comprehensive picture of the individual's capabilities. These tests might include cognitive testing, such as IQ or academic achievement tests, as well as brain wave measurements using a device called an electroencephalograph (EEG).
The evaluator will decide if the symptoms meet the criteria for ADHD and whether they fall under the inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive or combined type of ADHD. The evaluator may prescribe medication to manage symptoms. The treatment plan could include psychotherapy or other lifestyle modifications such as changing how the person conducts themselves, or using accommodations. The National Resource Center on ADHD provides additional information on treatments for adults.