ADHD Evaluation - What Happens in the First Step?
A healthcare professional evaluating ADHD will ask you and your closest family members such as your spouse, sibling, or friend in the case of an adultabout the symptoms you experience. This may provide information that questionnaires cannot.
It's more difficult to determine ADHD in adults, because diagnostic guidelines are created for children. It's important to find a doctor who specializes in the field who takes the time in evaluating your case.
Signs and symptoms
The first step in the process of conducting an ADHD evaluation is to have the patient talk honestly and openly about his issues and how they impact his life. Adults may not want admit that they struggle with paying attention, following instructions or organising tasks. But getting a precise diagnosis can help you manage symptoms and lead a more enjoyable life.
The evaluator will ask the person to provide information about their personal and medical history from childhood to present. The evaluator will also review the American Psychiatric Association's clinical guidelines for the condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
To meet criteria for a diagnosis of ADHD, an adult must have a history of at least six established symptoms in one or both of two main categories--inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity--for six months. The symptoms must have led to significant impairments in at least two significant contexts, such as work or school. In addition, the person evaluating must rule out any other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to ADHD, such as depression, anxiety, or an intellectual impairment.
In addition to an interview, a physician may use behavioral rating scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to collect information about the severity of the symptoms. Psychological tests that test executive functioning, working memory skills and visual and spatial reasoning can be helpful in identifying ADHD symptoms in adults. Depending on the situation doctors will often request permission to contact people close to the person who can offer valuable advice and help. They may request the names and contact numbers of parents, spouses, or siblings in order to speak with them about the individual's issues at home and at work.
A physical exam is usually part of an ADHD evaluation, as it can help rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms. In some cases thyroid problems and seizures can be a cause of ADHD. The evaluator could also perform a neurological examination to determine if there are symptoms of brain damage or injury which could cause the symptoms. The evaluator might also recommend urine and blood tests to evaluate for the presence of any other conditions that might hinder treatment, such as depression, alcohol or substance abuse.
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In diagnosing ADHD the doctor will look for symptoms that are present in different situations, such as at home, school or at work. They should also last for a lengthy period of time. The doctor will then determine how much your symptoms impact your daily life. If they cause a lot of trouble, it's likely that you or your child will meet the criteria for a diagnosis of either inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive ADHD.
To diagnose children, doctors must follow guidelines from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (DSM-V). They will review your child's symptoms and how they impact their lives. They might also conduct an interview. The interview will consist of a review of your child's medical family, psychiatric, or medical history. They will also ask questions about how your child's behavior affects their mood, behavior and productivity.
For adults, it is difficult to determine a diagnosis. The DSM-V is designed to diagnose children. There is some debate about whether the criteria still apply to adults. To meet the criteria for a diagnosis, an adult must have 6 or more symptoms of inattentive ADHD or 7 or more symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive ADHD. These symptoms must be present for a long time and must interfere with the daily activities at school, work, or at home.
Your doctor might also recommend other tests in addition the clinical interview to determine the severity and severity of your symptoms or that of your child. This may include blood tests or an EEG. Other tests can help identify a condition that is causing similar symptoms, such as depression or learning disabilities.
The suggestion of asking your family physician to refer you to a specialist who will evaluate your ADHD or the ADHD of your child is the best place to begin. You can also call your insurance provider to see if there are professionals covered under your plan who specialize in ADHD evaluations for adults. Another option is to reach out to a local support group and solicit recommendations. You can also contact an institution of higher education or a medical or graduate school to get an inventory of professionals who can conduct ADHD assessments.
Treatment
The symptoms of ADHD can cause significant problems at school and at work and can affect relationships. Getting a diagnosis and taking medication can help improve performance and lessen symptoms. People with ADHD may also need to alter their lifestyles, such as changing their sleep schedules, using daily planners or increasing exercise.
A person suffering from ADHD must be assessed by their primary healthcare provider or a mental health professional. In this in-person consultation the professional will discuss issues such as the development of the disorder of the person's family and lifestyle as well as current symptoms and issues. The doctor will ask questions about the person's performance, behavior, and productivity, and if they have issues with impulsive actions or focus. They will inquire about the duration of the symptoms, their frequency, when and where they began and the level of distress they cause.
The evaluator is likely to be looking to speak to other people in the patient's life, like parents, spouses, or siblings for adults, as well as coaches, teachers and daycare providers for children. They can provide insights that questionnaires can't provide for example, how the person often stops tasks mid-way or forgets things, or what situations trigger symptoms.
ADHD is treated with various behavioral therapies and drugs. The medications can include stimulants such as amphetamine, or nonstimulant medicines like dexamfetamine and atomoxetine. These drugs boost blood flow to the brain and suppress actions that are impulsive, allowing people to concentrate and follow instructions. They can be administered either orally or intravenously and are usually well tolerated.
Therapy can help those with ADHD develop strategies to overcome the difficulties they encounter. Therapists can help people learn how to manage their lives and track their appointments, and offer assistance and guidance when dealing with the effects of ADHD symptoms on family and at work. Family and marriage therapy can help address problems caused by the disorder that affects relationships, as well as teaching how to handle conflict and discord that could be triggered in these situations.
Medication
To allow an expert to diagnose ADHD the doctor must look at several things. They will ask about your child's symptoms at home, in school, and in other settings. They will also use questionnaires or scales that are specific for ADHD. They might also inquire about family history. They will also check for other conditions which could be the cause of the symptoms, like mood disorders or learning disabilities. They will also determine the severity of the symptoms and whether they affect your child's daily routine.
There is no physical test for ADHD, like a blood test or an X-ray. The healthcare provider for your child follows guidelines set by the American Psychiatric Association to diagnose ADHD. These guidelines are aimed at children aged 4 to 18. It is more difficult to identify ADHD in adults. The symptoms of ADHD can change with time. People who have ADHD can be diagnosed as predominately inattentive, predominately hyperactive-impulsive or a combination of the two.
A child must display at least six of the symptoms listed in the guidelines in order to be diagnosed with ADHD. The guidelines also state the symptoms must be present for a minimum of six months. If your child is being tested for ADHD It is crucial that someone familiar with them interview them. Included in this are their teachers, coaches, religious leaders and other caregivers. They should also be questioned about the effects of their symptoms on their daily functioning and how they compare to other children their age.
The most commonly used medication is a treatment option for ADHD. There are both stimulant and non-stimulant medications that are prescribed to reduce ADHD symptoms. Stimulants, such as amphetamine and methylphenidate, are the most frequently prescribed. These medications help to increase and balance levels of specific brain chemicals. Antipsychotics and atomoxetine are two medications that can treat ADHD. They are not as potent as stimulants, but are useful for those who cannot take stimulants due to serious adverse effects or health issues. They can be combined with other treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy.