ADHD Evaluation - What Happens in the First Step?
A medical professional conducting an ADHD evaluation will ask you and people close to you -- a spouse, sibling, or friend for adults -- about their symptoms. This will provide information that questionnaires are not able to provide.
It's more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults, since diagnostic guidelines are created for children. It is crucial to find an ADHD professional who will take the time to assess you.
Signs and symptoms
To conduct an ADHD assessment, the first step is to have the patient talk openly and honestly about symptoms and how they impact his life. Many adults are reluctant to admit they struggle with paying attention, following directions or organizing tasks, but obtaining an accurate diagnosis is the best way to get control of the symptoms and live a an enjoyable life.
The evaluator will ask the person to provide details about their medical and personal history from childhood to the present. The evaluator will also review the American Psychological Association's guidelines for treating this disorder 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. Symptoms must have caused significant impairment in at least two important situations, like work or school. Additionally, the examiner must rule out other disorders that can cause similar symptoms as ADHD like depression, anxiety, or an intellectual disability.
In addition to an interview, a doctor might use behavioral rating scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to collect information regarding the severity of the symptoms. Psychological tests that assess executive functioning, visual and spatial reasoning, and working memory may help identify ADHD symptoms in adults. Depending on the situation, doctors often ask for permission to contact people close to the person who could provide valuable insight and help. They may request the names and contact details of parents, spouses, or siblings in order to talk with them about the individual's issues at home and at work.
A physical examination is typically included in an ADHD assessment. It could help rule out other disorders out that may cause similar symptoms. For instance, thyroid issues and seizures can trigger symptoms that look a lot similar to ADHD. The evaluator can also perform an examination of the brain to determine if there are signs of brain damage or injury which could cause the symptoms. The evaluator could also recommend urine and blood tests to determine if there are other conditions that might affect treatment. For instance, depression or addiction to alcohol or drugs.
Diagnosis
In determining ADHD the doctor will be looking for signs that can be observed in various environments, such as at school, home, or work. The symptoms must also persist for a long period of time. Then, the doctor will evaluate how these symptoms impact your day-to-day 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.
Doctors utilize the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition to determine if children have. They will review the symptoms of your child and how they impact their lives. They might also conduct an interview for a clinical nature. The interview will cover your child's medical history, family history, and psychiatric history. You will be asked questions about your child's daily mood and behavior, as well as productivity.
It is more difficult to diagnose adults. The DSM-V is a diagnostic tool designed for children. There is some debate as to whether the criteria are still applicable in adulthood. 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. They must have these symptoms for a prolonged period of time, and they must significantly hinder their daily activities at school, at home or at work.
Your doctor may also order other tests in addition to the clinical interview to determine the nature and severity of your symptoms or those of your child. This could include tests for blood or EEG test. Other tests can help to rule out conditions that are producing the same symptoms as depressive or learning disabilities.
To find an expert to evaluate your or the child's ADHD you can begin by asking your family doctor for an appointment. You can also contact your insurance company to inquire if experts who specialize in ADHD assessments for adults are covered by your policy. Another option is to reach out to a local support group and solicit recommendations. You can also call an academic medical center or university hospital to get a list of professionals that provide ADHD assessments.
Treatment
Symptoms of ADHD can lead to serious issues at school and at work, and interfere with relationships. Getting a diagnosis and taking medication can help improve functioning and reduce symptoms. People suffering from ADHD may also have to alter their lifestyles, such as adjusting sleep schedules and using a daily planner, or increasing exercise.
Anyone suffering from ADHD should see the primary care doctor or psychiatrist or both to get an evaluation. During this in-person interview, the practitioner will cover issues such as the development of the disorder of the person's family and lifestyle, and current symptoms and problems. The doctor will inquire about the person's performance productivity, as well as if they are having issues with impulsive or focused actions. They will ask about the duration of the symptoms, when and where they started, and how much distress they cause.
The evaluator could discuss other people who are part of the patient's daily life, including parents, spouses siblings teachers, coaches, daycare providers, or even friends. These people can provide insights that questionnaires cannot, such as the fact that a person often forgets or stops work in mid-stream. They can also provide insight into the triggers for symptoms.
ADHD is treated using a variety of behavioral therapies and drugs. The medications can include stimulants like amphetamine or nonstimulant drugs like atomoxetine and dexamfetamine. how to get an adhd diagnosis uk boost blood flow to the brain and reduce impulsive actions which allows people to pay attention and follow directions. These drugs can be administered intravenously or orally and are generally well-tolerated.
Therapy can help people with ADHD come up with strategies to compensate for the challenges they encounter. Therapists can help individuals learn how to manage their lives, keep track of appointments and provide assistance and guidance in dealing with the impact ADHD symptoms have on work and home life. Family and marriage therapy can help with issues caused by the disorder in relationships, as well as teaching how to handle conflict and discord that can occur in these situations.
Medication
For an expert to diagnose ADHD, they must evaluate many 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 may also ask about family history. They will search for other conditions that could be the cause of the symptoms, for example mood disorders or learning disabilities. They will also assess the severity of the symptoms and if they are affecting your child's daily life.
There isn't a physical test for ADHD that is comparable to the blood test or an X-ray. The healthcare provider for your child follows guidelines developed by the American Psychiatric Association to diagnose ADHD. These guidelines are geared towards children 4 to 18 years of age. 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 show at least six of the symptoms listed in the guidelines in order to be diagnosed as having ADHD. The guidelines also state that the symptoms must be present for a minimum of 6 months. If your child is being tested for ADHD It is crucial that someone familiar with them interviews them. Included in this are their teachers, coaches, religious leaders, and other caregivers. You should also inquire what their symptoms impact their daily life, and how they compare to other children of their age.
The most popular treatment for ADHD is medication. Both stimulant and nonstimulant medication can be prescribed to reduce ADHD. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are amphetamine, methylphenidate, and other stimulants. These medications balance and boost levels of certain brain chemical. Antipsychotics and atomoxetine are also drugs that treat ADHD. They are not as potent as stimulants, but are useful for those who are unable to use stimulants due to serious side effects or health issues. They can be used in combination with other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.