3 Ways In Which The ADHD Diagnoses Can Affect Your Life

How ADHD Is Diagnosed
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms as well as any history of ADHD. The doctor will also examine your family history.
People are often diagnosed with ADHD in later years. A major event, such as pregnancy or a relationship crisis can trigger awareness of the issue. Getting a diagnosis is the first step in managing ADHD symptoms and improving functioning.
Characteristics
Children who have the diagnostic criteria for ADHD have a lot of trouble sitting still, waiting for a call and paying attention in school or in other environments. These problems can significantly affect their functioning at work, at home or at school. The signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity must have been present for at minimum six months and be more prominent than is normal for their age or developmental level. They should also be causing significant issues at work, school and at home as well as in relationships.
The diagnosis of ADHD requires a thorough clinical evaluation by a certified health care provider. This may include a physical exam, and checking for other conditions that could cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or depression. The health professional may also examine the patient's medical, psychiatric and academic records. Additionally, he will talk to the patient about his or her symptoms. For children, the questions are usually geared toward their age, and parents are sometimes interviewed as well.
The provider will use the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for diagnosing ADHD in adults and children as laid out in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The doctor will look at the person's past and current behavior and how it impacts their social, professional and family life. If possible, the therapist will also look at the person's schooling and childhood experiences.
When conducting an assessment on adults, the doctor will be able to determine whether they suffer from an underlying mental health condition that is co-occurring and will inquire whether the person has any family history of ADHD. People who have family members with ADHD are more likely to have it themselves.
If a health care provider suspects someone has ADHD, they will perform an entire clinical examination. This involves examining the person's current symptoms and requesting that they keep a journal every day of their symptoms over a period of several weeks. He or she will also inquire about any other conditions the person has and will consult the DSM-5 symptoms guide to determine if they have any of the symptoms of ADHD.
Diagnosis
Many health professionals who specialize in mental illness or have an interest in ADHD can perform screening and diagnose the disorder. Clinical psychologists, nurse practitioners psychiatrists, physician assistants and psychologists are all able to diagnose ADHD. Some family doctors diagnose ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They might refer adults for a comprehensive assessment.
The first step to diagnose ADHD is an extensive medical examination which includes a thorough examination of vision and hearing. A doctor may also recommend a brain scanner known as an EEG Based Assessment Aid (NEBA) to measure the intensity of theta and Beta waves in the brain. This type of scanning is a non-invasive, safe method for screening individuals for ADHD.
In an interview with the person, the examiner reviews the patient's medical and mental history going back to childhood, as well as his present symptoms and coping strategies. The doctor checks to see if the person meets the diagnostic criteria for either inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive or combined ADHD presentations as defined by the American Psychiatric Association in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
For teens and children being evaluated for ADHD, the doctor will likely request teachers and other individuals who spend a lot of time with the child to complete questionnaires or checklists. He or she may also ask parents complete such forms. For adults, they is likely to talk to spouses and other close friends, as well as co-workers and might also interview relatives who know the person from their childhood.
During the diagnostic process, the mental health professional looks for signs that indicate whether the person is experiencing predominantly inattentive or primarily hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. He or she will determine the duration for which symptoms have been present and if they result in problems at home, at the workplace, at school or in any other aspect of life.
The mental health professional must also screen for other disorders that have symptoms with ADHD such as bipolar, depression, or anxiety disorder. He or she must also search for physical causes for example, thyroid problems or sleep disorders. In addition an extensive screening will also examine the person's social, emotional and family background.
Treatment
Children with ADHD must learn to manage their symptoms. Families can help by encouraging school staff to observe their child's progress, providing positive feedback, and showing flexible and patience. They can also help teach relaxation techniques and methods for calming such as meditation or yoga. Many children with ADHD benefit from regular physical activity and a healthy diet which can help enhance their ability to concentrate and focus. They should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can aggravate their symptoms. They should also get enough sleep.
ADHD symptoms can persist through the adolescent years, and into adulthood. Adults may have difficulty at work or with relationships. A health care provider will perform an evaluation to determine whether a person has ADHD and how severe it is. The evaluation consists of an assessment of the mental state as well as a physical exam and interviews with the person and his or her parents, spouses or partners, and others who are familiar with him or her. The healthcare provider might ask the patient to write down their symptoms and how they affect them. The doctor could also use rating scales and other tests to confirm that the person meets standardized criteria for ADHD. The person may also inquire about any medical conditions that could be similar to ADHD symptoms, such as seizures disorder and thyroid disorder.
If someone is diagnosed as having ADHD the medication will be prescribed to treat symptoms. Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD as well as in children as well as adults. These drugs are likely to cause adverse consequences, and therefore a person should only use them under a physician's supervision and a prescription. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking. Certain medications can interact with stimulants, causing dangerous adverse effects. Many people with ADHD need to test different types and doses of medication before they can find one that works.
Prevention
In some instances, reducing exposure to triggers from the environment can aid in preventing ADHD symptoms. These triggers could include diet and sleep habits and family structure, as well as medication. A GP can assist you on how to manage triggers and recommend an dietitian for nutritional advice or additional support.
Consult your GP for more information. Try to avoid adult diagnosis of adhd for your diet that do not have a scientific backing or interact with certain medications.
Adults who suspect that they suffer from ADHD should consult an expert in mental health, such as psychiatrist or psychologist, to determine the diagnosis. The doctor will conduct a thorough history, conduct an examination of the body and look over medical records to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. The therapist will speak with the patient, observe their behavior and use the standard ratings scales. The therapist will take into consideration the severity and duration of core ADHD-related symptoms, as being aware of whether they have an impact on a person's daily life.
A therapist may collaborate with a patient as well as their family members to improve parenting, teach time management and other methods for managing time. They may also coach the patient in metacognitive abilities, which involves identifying and changing "thinking distortions" that can cause negative moods or the perception of having fewer alternatives. Psychologists are able to prescribe specific medications and work with mental health professionals to provide complete treatment.
Parents can also aid by providing a stable and loving home by setting clear expectations and rewarding, encouraging good sleep hygiene and avoid stimulants. They should also encourage their children to be social and work to build a healthy bond with their child's partner.
The staff at the school can provide valuable information about issues with learning and behavior in children however, they are not qualified to diagnose ADHD or make treatment recommendations. These decisions are taken by the child's parents, health provider, and teacher with the assistance of the other.