ADHD Diagnosis
Children suffering from ADHD are incapable of sitting still, pay attention or behave impulsively. The symptoms of ADHD have been present for a period of six months or more and are more severe than expected for their age.
Experts identify ADHD through questionnaires, discussions with parents and teachers, and school performance records. They also take into account a patient's history and any other mental health problems.
Diagnosing ADHD
For people who live with ADHD being diagnosed with ADHD can provide relief and a sense of acceptance. But getting an official diagnosis may be emotional, especially when a person doesn't intend to take medication as part of their treatment.
A professional who specializes in diagnosing ADHD will go over your child's or your own's history and symptoms. They'll inquire about when the symptoms first started and if they've gotten worse over time. They'll also assess your child's growth and mental health as well as family and lifestyle. They may also speak with coaches, teachers or other adults who know your child.
The goal is to determine if you or your child has symptoms that match the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition DSM-V criteria1. This means six or more ADHD-related symptoms that interfere with daily functioning, and cannot be explained by any other factors such as problems at school or home, poor nutrition or anxiety, or sleep disorders.
Your doctor will also look at past behavior and performance in addition to the DSM-V Criteria. They'll look at how long it takes you or your child to finish tasks and also their tendency to make careless mistakes, and whether they're having trouble sitting still. They'll also consider whether you or your child has a history of depression or anxiety. These disorders often coexist with ADHD.
A history of physical trauma or birth complications or an abnormal thyroid gland can affect the results of an ADHD evaluation. They may also be looking for other issues, such as bipolar disorder and learning disabilities.
During a face-to-face ADHD evaluation either you or your child might take one of the ADHD tests, like the Neuropsychiatric-EEG-Based Assessment Aid System (NEBA). This instrument examines brain wave patterns and is approved for children aged 6 to 17. ADHD testing is only one aspect of a complete assessment.
ADHD symptoms
People who suffer from ADHD use brain networks differently to send and relay information. They aren't able to focus their attention or controlling their behavior. This can lead to issues at home as well as at school. They tend to make decisions without thinking about the consequences or needs of others. They frequently make erroneous mistakes at work and in school. If symptoms persist for longer than 6 months and affect daily school life and in the community, the condition is diagnosed.
Doctors typically use standardized behavior rating scales and ADHD symptom checklists to determine if a person has the right criteria for a diagnosis. Patients are often asked to describe their issue in their own words. They also interview those who know the patient well like siblings or spouses for adults, or a schoolteacher or coach for children. These interviews can provide valuable information that can't be gathered from tests or questionnaires.
ADHD symptoms can manifest at any age, however they usually begin in childhood. When diagnosing a patient, doctors should consider the issues they experienced in their childhood. They can request old school records or speak to the patient's parents or teachers regarding their experiences as a child.
Many people with ADHD remain undiagnosed until they reach adulthood because they were able to compensate for their difficulties in childhood employing tricks or strategies to learn. The symptoms of ADHD can be more apparent as their responsibilities increase in adulthood, as they struggle to manage work and family obligations, as well as other obligations. Women and girls are able to hide their symptoms more easily than males and females. This makes diagnosis more difficult.
Researchers believe that even though the cause of ADHD has not been determined the cause is genetic, certain environmental factors may contribute to the development of the disorder. Prenatal exposure to drugs, alcohol, or nicotine could increase the chance of developing the disorder. Loss of attachment early and trauma can also cause the disorder. The symptoms are triggered by chemical changes that affect the nervous system during critical periods of development.
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 that you or your child have been experiencing, their frequency, and the issues they create. They may also talk to other people in your life, such as teachers, family members and coaches to help them develop a clear picture of your the child's behavior.
The provider may use the list of ADHD symptoms to determine whether you or your child fulfill the diagnostic criteria for this disorder. They will also take into consideration other disorders such as mood and anxiety disorders that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
Adults diagnosed with ADHD are usually prescribed medication to treat symptoms. Products that stimulate the brain, such as those containing methylphenidate or amphetamine appear to improve the balance and levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. In certain adults, these drugs may also improve their ability to think clearly and make good decisions. Other options include nonstimulants like atomoxetine, or antidepressants. They are less potent than stimulants, however they are effective in the event that your child is not able to take stimulants due to medical issues or severe side effects.
The treatment of children who suffer from ADHD is dependent on parents actively participating in therapy sessions. Parents learn to better communicate with their child, and also support them at home and at school. Therapists can help parents learn parenting skills and strategies for managing stress that will aid them in coping with the demands of children with ADHD.
Some people who suffer from ADHD also have co-occurring mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety that need to be treated at the same time as the ADHD symptoms. For this reason, a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in treating ADHD frequently collaborates with a mental health professional who can treat these coexisting conditions. Therapists can assist people suffering from ADHD learn coping and organizational skills that improve their relationships and life quality. They can also recommend classes that teach problem-solving and social skills.
Treatment for ADHD
There are a variety of treatments available for children and adults with ADHD. Your doctor can help you determine the most effective treatment plan for your child or adult. Treatment options include medication as well as behavioral therapy and family counseling. Support groups and psychoeducation are also helpful.
Your child's behavior will be evaluated by your health care professional 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 and mood, and check for other conditions that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD like seizures, learning disorders, sleep apnea hearing and vision problems, and thyroid issues.
The most common form of ADHD is one that manifests as hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. This presentation is more common among children in the early years and is easy to spot because children who have this type of disorder often have trouble concentrating, talk too much or struggle to sit still. They struggle to concentrate in school and other settings like family or community activities.
Other forms of ADHD are difficult to recognize because they tend to appear differently in different situations. For instance there are some adults who show inattention but don't have the hyperactivity or impulsivity which is usually seen in younger people. Adults with these traits may have difficulty maintaining their jobs, staying on task or managing relationships.
Some people suffering from ADHD experience anxiety or depression in addition to their ADHD symptoms. These individuals require a separate treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy). adhd undiagnosed in adults is essential that your mental health professional assesses these other symptoms as well as the ADHD symptoms.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They can be administered by mouth or through a nose spray (liquid) or patch. They are generally safe for the majority of people, but there is a possibility of side effects, including a slower heart rate, decreased appetite and a worsening of mood in certain people.
Other medications and supplements can aid people suffering from ADHD. These include omega-3 fatty acid and vitamins C andE. They can help improve concentration and reduce irritation.