ADHD Evaluation - What Happens in the First Step?
A healthcare professional who is conducting an ADHD evaluation will ask you and those around you -- such as your spouse, sibling, or friend for adults -- about their symptoms. This is often a way to gain information that questionnaires cannot.
It is more difficult to determine ADHD in adults, because diagnostic guidelines are developed for children. It is essential to find a specialist in the field who takes his or her time with your evaluation.
Symptoms
The first step in the initial step of an ADHD evaluation is to have the patient speak honestly and openly about the symptoms and how they impact his life. Some adults do not want to admit they have difficulty paying attention, following directions or organizing tasks, but obtaining an accurate diagnosis is the best way to gain control of the symptoms and live a a more fulfilling life.
The evaluator will ask the person about their personal and medical history from childhood until 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. The symptoms must have caused significant impairment in at least two major settings, such as school or work. In addition, the evaluator must rule out other disorders that could cause similar symptoms to ADHD like anxiety, depression or an intellectual impairment.
In addition to an interview, a doctor might use behavioral rating scales or ADHD symptoms checklists to gather information regarding the severity of the symptoms. Psychological tests that measure executive functioning, visual and spatial reasoning and working memory can help in identifying ADHD symptoms in adults. Doctors can ask permission depending on the situation to reach out to family members or friends who may offer valuable advice and help. They may request the names and contact information of parents, spouses, or siblings in order to talk with them about the individual's issues at home and at the workplace.
A physical exam is typically part of an ADHD assessment, since it can help determine other disorders that can cause similar symptoms. In some instances thyroid issues and seizures can be a cause of ADHD. The evaluator could also conduct a neurological exam to determine if there is any indication of damage or injury to the brain that would explain the symptoms. The evaluator might also recommend urine and blood tests to check for the presence of other medical conditions that could interfere with treatment, like depression or alcohol and drug abuse.
Diagnosis
In diagnosing ADHD, your doctor will be looking for signs that manifest in various situations, such as at home, school or at work. They should also last for a significant period of time. Then, the doctor will evaluate how these symptoms interfere with 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.
To diagnose children, doctors must follow guidelines from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V). They will assess the child's symptoms and how they impact their lives. They may also conduct an interview for a clinical nature. The interview will discuss your child's medical background, family history and psychiatric background. You will be asked about your child's daily mood, behavior, and productivity.
For adults, it is more difficult to establish a diagnosis. The DSM-V is designed to help diagnose children. There is some debate over whether the criteria still apply 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. These symptoms must be present for a prolonged period of time and interfere with everyday functioning at work, school or at home.
Your doctor might also recommend additional tests in addition to a 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 rule out a condition that is causing similar symptoms, such as depression or learning disabilities.
To find an expert to evaluate your your child's ADHD begin by asking your family physician for the referral. You can also contact your insurance provider to find out if professionals who specialize in ADHD assessments for adults are covered by your insurance plan. You can also reach out to a local group of support and ask for recommendations. You can also call the medical school or university hospital to obtain the names of specialists who conduct ADHD assessments.
Treatment
Symptoms of ADHD can cause significant problems at school and work and can affect relationships. Diagnosed with ADHD and taking medication to improve your performance can reduce symptoms. Patients with ADHD may also have to change their lifestyle for example, adjusting sleeping schedules, using a daily planner, or increasing their exercise.
A person suffering from ADHD must be assessed by their primary care provider or an expert in mental health. In the interview in person an expert will discuss subjects like the development of the disorder, family history, lifestyle and the current symptoms. made a post will inquire about the individual's performance, behavior, and productivity, and if they have trouble with impulsive behavior or focus. They will inquire about the duration of the symptoms, when and where they began and the amount of distress they cause.
The evaluator might want to talk to other people who are involved in the patient's daily life, including parents, spouses siblings, teachers, coaches, daycare providers, or family members. These people can offer insights that questionnaires can't, such as the fact that a person frequently forgets or stops tasks in mid-stream. They can also provide insight into what triggers symptoms.
Many behavioral therapies and medications are used to treat ADHD. The medications may include stimulants such as amphetamine, or nonstimulant drugs such as atomoxetine (Serenade) and dexamfetamine (Vyvanse). These drugs improve blood flow to the brain, reducing impulsive behavior and allow people to pay more attention and follow directions. They can be administered orally or intravenously, and are usually well tolerated.
In addition to medications therapy can also help those with ADHD discover strategies to deal with their issues. Therapists can help people learn how to organize their lives, manage their appointments, and provide assistance and guidance in dealing with the impact ADHD symptoms have on their work and family life. Therapy for families and marriage is a great way to tackle the issues caused by ADHD in relationships. It can also help teach coping skills and help resolve conflict that may arise.
Medication
For a health professional to diagnose ADHD, they must evaluate many things. They will ask your child about his or her symptoms at school, at home and in other locations. They will also utilize questionnaires or scales that are specific for ADHD. They might also inquire about family history. They will also look for other conditions that may cause the symptoms, like mood disorders or learning disabilities. They will also assess the severity of the symptoms and if they interfere with your child's daily life.
There is no physical test that can determine ADHD. This includes X-rays and blood tests. The healthcare provider for your child follows guidelines developed by the American Psychiatric Association to diagnose ADHD. These guidelines are aimed at children aged between 4 and 18. Adults are more difficult to recognize. The symptoms of ADHD can change over 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 conducts an interview. Included in this are their coaches, teachers, religious leaders and other caregivers. They should also be questioned about how the symptoms affect their daily functioning and how they compare to other children their age.
Medication is the most popular form of treatment for ADHD. Both nonstimulant and stimulant medication are available to treat ADHD. Stimulants, like methylphenidate and amphetamine, are the most frequently prescribed. These drugs balance and increase levels of certain brain chemicals. Antipsychotics and atomoxetine are also medications that can help treat ADHD. They are less effective than stimulants, but they are beneficial for people who cannot take stimulant medication due to health problems or severe side effects. These medications can be utilized with other treatments such as cognitive behavioral treatment.