How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is a normal child's condition, but it can also affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can improve a person's life.
A diagnosis for ADHD may involve interviewing the patient and their family members. The specialist could look over old school records to determine if the symptoms started as an infant.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time to time, but for someone who has ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with school, work and family life. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas and they must be able to significantly impact everyday functioning to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, doctors will speak with the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family history and medical conditions. adult adhd diagnosis may also use rating scales that measure a adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
For adults, doctors might require a discussion with a significant other or people who are familiar with the patient. This isn't meant to challenge the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain insight into the behavior of a person that cannot be gleaned from an interview. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at the old school records to determine if the symptoms started prior to the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will perform an extensive physical examination and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions out for thyroid issues or head injuries that could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the patient's medication list. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when recommending treatments. It is essential that adults talk to their primary healthcare providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD, symptoms must manifest in at least two places (such as school, home and at work) and interfere with functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and can't be caused by another disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will employ various tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists, standardized behaviour rating scales and a thorough medical history. They might also talk to friends and family members to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They will ask if the symptoms are similar to other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also examine the person's medical history and family history to determine if there is no underlying cause for their issues such as thyroid issues, head injuries or medication.
In some cases, an evaluator may want to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, such as mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. People with these problems tend to show different symptoms than those who don't have them. For instance, boys are more likely to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. While this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to further research, it is important for participants to understand that the purpose behind these studies is to gain knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect they have ADHD, it's important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to find out whether ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek recommendations from family doctors or other health care providers. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also an alternative.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents, in the case of children, about the symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and ask others in the person's life for details like their spouses and families. Personal experience often reveals more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to look over any documents that the individual may have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must be present from childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also performed. It checks for other medical issues that could be the cause of symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam that checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that measure the ability to think and be smart could also be used. A person could also be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive or an impulsive. The expert will choose a treatment plan and make an appropriate diagnosis. Typically, the treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD improve their condition by taking medication, but it's not the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination of both can be beneficial to adolescents, children, and adults. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to manage these symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and ways to manage it, can be included. They could include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It is essential to find an expert in mental health or health care professional who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or conduct an online search. It is important to find a specialist familiar with your insurance.
The health professional will ask you or your child about symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will do an examination of the body and look for other health problems which could trigger similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you and also school documents and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be a bit more difficult due to the fact that the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your doctor will ask you or your child regarding their symptoms and may also ask other people who spend a lot of time with them to complete questionnaires and checklists. They will use these to help them decide whether you or your child has inattentive ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, combined ADHD or unspecified ADHD. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine as well as certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD have comorbid disorders like depression or anxiety. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities such as time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential too. People who suffer from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar and less fruit and vegetables. In addition making social and family relationships prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children an understanding understanding of their challenges. A child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their requirements to teachers or their other peers. When a teacher is aware that this is not an issue that is solely because of their inability to communicate, they can make accommodations.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared towards the person's specific age, talk to family members and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbidities. For adults, school records might be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. They might also conduct tests on blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, as well as other health conditions which can cause ADHD-like signs and symptoms.