ADHD Diagnosis
Children suffering from ADHD are unable to sit still paying attention and acting impulsively. Their symptoms have been present for at least six months and are more severe than expected for their age or development.
Experts identify ADHD using questionnaires, interviews with parents and teachers and school performance records. They also take into consideration the history of the patient and any mental health conditions.
Diagnosing ADHD
A diagnosis can be a relief for those suffering from ADHD. It can also bring a sense that you are in the right. A diagnosis can be emotionally draining especially for those who don't intend to take medication as part their treatment.
A professional who is trained to diagnose ADHD will examine the symptoms and history of your child or yourself. They will ask about the onset of symptoms and whether they have gotten worse with time. They'll also examine your child's growth and mental health as well as family and lifestyle. They may also speak with teachers, coaches or other professionals who are familiar with your child.
The objective is to determine if you 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. That includes six or more ADHD symptoms that are significantly affecting with daily functioning and can't be explained by other factors, such as problems at school or at home or nutrition issues or medical conditions like anxiety or sleep issues.
Your doctor will also take into consideration the past behavior and performance of your child in addition to the DSM-V Criteria. They'll take note of how long it takes you or your child to complete tasks and also their tendency to make careless mistakes, and if they are unable to sit still. They'll also determine if you or your child have a past history of anxiety, depression, or mood disorders, which are often associated with ADHD.
Other factors that can influence the results of an ADHD assessment include whether you or your child has an history of physical trauma or birth complications, or an abnormal thyroid gland. They also will look for other conditions, such as bipolar disorder or learning disabilities.
In an in-person ADHD evaluation, you or your child might take one of the numerous ADHD tests that are available, such as the Neuropsychiatric EEG-Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) system. The instrument analyzes brain patterns of waves and is approved for children aged 6 to 17. It is important to understand that ADHD testing is only a small part of an overall assessment.
Signs and symptoms of ADHD
People suffering from ADHD have a different way of using brain networks that send and relay messages. They are unable to focus their attention or managing their behavior. This can lead to problems at home and at school. They tend to make decisions without thinking about the consequences or the needs of others. They commit many naive mistakes at work and at school. If symptoms persist for more than six months and disrupt daily school life and in the community, the disorder is diagnosed.
Doctors utilize ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized behavior ratings scales to determine whether a person fits the criteria needed to diagnose. They might also ask the patient to describe their issues in their own words. They can also ask those who are familiar with the patient, like a sibling or spouse for adults or a teacher coach when they are children. These interviews can provide valuable insights that cannot be gleaned through questionnaires or tests.
ADHD symptoms can manifest at any age, but they typically begin in childhood. Doctors must consider a person's issues from childhood when determining a diagnosis. They may want to see the school records from the past or talk to the patient's parents or teachers about the symptoms they experienced as in the midst of their childhood.
Many adults with ADHD aren't diagnosed because they compensated for their problems when they were children with tricks or strategies to learn. Their symptoms may become more evident as their responsibilities increase in adulthood, as they struggle to manage their work, family and other obligations. Girls and women are better at concealing their symptoms than males and females which makes a diagnosis more difficult.
Although the exact cause of ADHD isn't understood, experts believe that genetics and environmental factors are responsible for the development of this disorder. The prenatal exposure to drugs, alcohol or nicotine may increase the chance of developing the disorder. Loss of attachment early and trauma may also cause the disorder. The symptoms are triggered by chemical changes that affect the nervous system during the critical phases of development.
Medication for ADHD
In a typical evaluation, a health care professional will talk to you or your child. They will ask questions about symptoms you or your child have been experiencing, the frequency they occur, and what issues they cause in your life. They may also talk to other people in your life, such as family members, teachers and coaches, to help them get an accurate picture of your your child's behavior.
adhd in adults diagnosis might use a list of ADHD symptoms to determine if you or your child meets the diagnostic criteria for this disorder. They will also take into account other disorders, such as mood and anxiety disorders that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
Adults with ADHD who are diagnosed with the disorder typically take prescription medication to manage their symptoms. The stimulants, such as those that contain methylphenidate and amphetamine can boost and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. In certain adults, these drugs can also improve their ability to think clearly and make smart decisions. Other options include nonstimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. These medications work slower than stimulants, and are typically efficient when you or your child are unable to take stimulants due other medical issues or severe side effects.
The treatment of children suffering from ADHD is dependent on the parents actively participating in therapy sessions. Parents learn to better communicate with their child and support them at home and at school. Therapists can help parents develop parenting skills and stress management techniques that will assist them in managing the demands of children with ADHD.
Certain people suffering from ADHD suffer from psychiatric disorders that are comorbid like anxiety and depression, that must be treated simultaneously with the ADHD symptoms. For this reason, a psychiatrist or psychologist who specializes in treating ADHD frequently works in conjunction with a mental health specialist who can treat these coexisting disorders. Therapists can also help people who suffer from ADHD learn coping and organization techniques that will improve their relationships and their quality of life. They can also suggest classes to help with problem-solving and also to improve communication.
Treatment for ADHD
There are a variety of treatments available for ADHD for both adults and children. Your doctor will assist you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your child or adult. Treatment options include medication as well as behavioral therapy and family counseling. Psychoeducation and support group are also helpful.
Your child's behavior will be evaluated by your health care provider to determine if they suffer from ADHD. They might inquire about your child's behavior in school, at home, and in social situations. adhd in adults undiagnosed will also examine your child's mood and medical history, and search for other conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD like seizure disorders and sleep apnea.
The majority of people with this kind of ADHD show problems with hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. This presentation is more common among children in the early years and is evident because children with this type often have trouble concentrating, talk too much or are unable to sit still. They have trouble paying attention in the classroom and other settings like social or family activities.
Other types of ADHD can be harder to diagnose because they often manifest differently in different environments. Some adults may show inattention but not the hyperactivity and an impulsiveness that are seen in younger individuals. These adults might have trouble maintaining their jobs and on task, or managing relationships.
Some people with ADHD develop depression or anxiety in addition to their ADHD symptoms. These people need a different treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy). It is essential for your mental health professional to assess these other symptoms along with the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD. They can be administered by mouth or through a nose spray (liquid) or patch. They are generally safe for the majority people, however there is a possibility of adverse effects, such as a slowed heart rate, decreased appetite, and a decrease in mood in a few people.
Some people with ADHD can be assisted by taking a range of other medications or supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins C and E. These supplements can aid in improving concentration and reduce anxiety.