ADHD Diagnosis
Children with ADHD struggle to remain still, paying attention and acting recklessly. The symptoms of ADHD have been present for a period of six months or more and are much more severe than normal for children of their age.
Experts use questionnaires interviews with parents and teachers and school performance reports to diagnose ADHD. They also consider the patient's past and any mental health problems.
Diagnosing ADHD
For those with ADHD being diagnosed with ADHD can bring relief and acceptance. A diagnosis can be emotionally draining particularly for those who do not plan to use medication as part their treatment.
A specialist who is skilled in diagnosing ADHD will go over your or your child's history and symptoms. They will ask about the symptoms' onset and if they've become worse with time. They will also examine the development of your child or yourself, mental health and lifestyle. They may also speak with coaches, teachers or other professionals who are familiar with your child.
The goal is to determine if you or your child has symptoms that meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fifth Edition DSM-V criteria1. This means six or more symptoms related to ADHD that affect daily functioning, and cannot be explained by any other factors such as problems at home or school or in the home, inadequate nutrition or 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 length of time you or your child take to complete tasks, if they tend to make careless errors, and if they are unable to sit still. They'll also look into whether you or your child have any previous history of depression, anxiety, or mood disorders, which can often coexist with ADHD.
Other factors that may affect the outcome 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 also will look for other conditions such as bipolar disorder and learning disabilities.
During a face-to-face ADHD evaluation your child or you may take one of many ADHD tests, including the Neuropsychiatric-EEG Based Assessment Aid System (NEBA). This tool tests brain waves and is approved for children aged between 6 and 17. ADHD testing is only one part of a comprehensive assessment.
ADHD symptoms
People who suffer from ADHD use brain networks differently to transmit and relay information. They are unable to focus their attention or controlling their behavior. This can lead to issues at home as well as in school. Their behavior is also characterised by rapid bursts of energy and making decisions on the spot without weighing the consequences or the needs of others. They make many careless mistakes at work and at school. If adhd adults diagnosis persist for longer than six months and affect daily school life and in the community, the disorder is diagnosed.
Doctors use ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized behavior ratings scales to determine if an individual meets the criteria needed to diagnose. They may also ask the patient to describe their issues in their own words. They may also interview people that have a relationship with the patient, like a sibling or spouse for adults or a teacher or coach if they are children. These interviews usually provide valuable information that can't be gathered from tests or questionnaires.
The symptoms of ADHD can be seen in any age group, but the condition usually develops in the earliest years of childhood. When diagnosing a patient doctors must take into account the issues they experienced in their childhood. They may ask to see old school records or speak to the patient's parents or teachers regarding their experiences as when they were children.
Many adults with ADHD are not diagnosed because they reacted to their issues as children using strategies or tricks to learn. Their symptoms may become more evident as their responsibilities increase in adulthood, as they struggle to manage their work or family obligations, among others. Women and girls can conceal their symptoms more easily than males and females. This can make diagnosis more difficult.
Researchers believe that even though the exact cause of ADHD is not yet known but genetics and environmental factors could play a role in the development of the disorder. The prenatal exposure to alcohol, nicotine or other substances may increase the risk of developing the disorder. The early loss of attachment and trauma could trigger the 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 questions about the symptoms that you or your child has been experiencing, the frequency at which they happen and what kind of problems they can cause in your life. They can also talk to other people in your life, such as family members, teachers and coaches to help them gain an accurate picture of your your child's behavior.
Providers can use a list of ADHD symptoms to determine if you or your child meets diagnostic criteria for the 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. The stimulants, such as those which contain amphetamine and methylphenidate, appear to boost and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. These medications can also improve the capacity of individuals to make smart decisions and make clear. Other options include nonstimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. These medications are not as powerful as stimulants, however they are effective in the event that your child is unable to take stimulants due to medical issues or severe adverse effects.
The treatment of children who suffer from ADHD depends on the parents' active participation in therapy sessions. Parents learn how to better communicate with their child and help them at home and at school. Therapists can help parents develop parenting skills and techniques for managing stress to assist them in managing the demands imposed on children with ADHD.
Some people who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from co-occurring psychiatric disorders, like anxiety and depression that must be treated in conjunction with the ADHD symptoms. A psychiatrist or psychologist who has been trained to treat ADHD will often work closely with a mental health professional who can treat coexisting conditions. Therapists can help people with ADHD learn coping and organizational skills that improve their relationships and life quality. They may also recommend classes to help with problem-solving and communication.
Treatment for ADHD
There are many different treatments available for ADHD for both adults and children. Your doctor will help you determine the best treatment plan for either your child or adult. Treatment options include medication therapy, family counseling and behavioural therapy. Psychoeducation and support group are also beneficial.
Your child's behavior will be evaluated by your doctor to determine if they suffer from ADHD. They may ask about your child's behavior at school, at home and social situations. They will also assess your child's mood and medical history, and look for other conditions that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD, such as seizure disorders and sleep apnea.
The majority of people with this type of ADHD show problems with inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. This presentation is more common in young children and is easy to recognize because kids who have this type of disorder often have trouble concentrating, talk too much or have trouble sitting still. They struggle to concentrate in school and other settings, such as family or community activities.
It isn't easy to recognize other types of ADHD because they manifest in a variety of ways. For instance there are some adults who show inattention, but do not exhibit the hyperactivity or impulsivity which is usually seen in younger people. They may have difficulty maintaining their jobs, staying on task or managing relationships.
Some people with ADHD experience anxiety or depression in addition to their ADHD symptoms. They require a different treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy (also called talk therapy). It is essential that your mental health professional assesses these other symptoms along with the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants or stimulants are the most common medications prescribed for ADHD. They can be taken orally as a nasal spray or patch. Most people are safe from side effects. However, some people may experience a slowed pulse rate, decreased appetite, or an increase in mood.
Certain people suffering from ADHD can be assisted by taking a range of other supplements or medications, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins C and E. These can help improve concentration and reduce anxiety.