How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, but it can also affect adults. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can lead a happier life.
Interviewing the person and their family members may be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist may examine the school records of the past to determine if symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school as well as home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organised at times. To be diagnosed with the disorder, one must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and demonstrate that the symptoms significantly affect daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and inquire about their family history and medical problems. They can also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These questionnaires ask about symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults may be asked to talk to their spouse or someone who knows them well. This isn't meant to challenge honesty, but to gain insight into a person's behavior that can't be gathered from a questionnaire. You can also inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at old school records to determine whether the symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and run tests in order to rule other ailments like thyroid problems or head injuries, which could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the medication list of a patient. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other conditions can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when recommending treatments. It's important that adults talk to their primary health care providers if they suspect they may have ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in two or more settings (like school, home, and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and can't be caused by another disorder like depression or anxiety.
A doctor or mental health professional will employ a variety of tools during the evaluation that include ADHD symptom checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a detailed history. They may interview friends and family members to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire whether there are other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there isn't any underlying reason for their symptoms like thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In some instances an examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, like learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders and alcohol abuse. People who suffer from these issues tend to show different symptoms than those who do not suffer from them. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD would like to participate in an experiment in order to test new treatments. This is an excellent chance to conduct further research. However, participants must be aware that the main goal of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge, not the guarantee of treatment. For more information about clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect that you may have ADHD Find a doctor who is trained to identify the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to determine whether ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek referrals from family doctors or other health professionals. Word-of mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will interview the patient -- or their parents, in children's cases -- about their symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and ask others in the person's life for information like their spouses and families. Personal insights can provide more information than what can be learned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records particularly old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often determined by the past of an individual. To be diagnosed, symptoms must have existed from the age of a child (technically, before the age 12).
Physical examinations are also carried out. It is also checked for other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological exam is usually conducted by the expert to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test the level of intelligence and ability can be used. A person may be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help adults and children learn healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy is usually performed by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medication. However it is not the only method of treating the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to live with them. They may include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can include family members, teachers and professionals.
It's important to find a medical professional or mental health professional who has expertise in treating ADHD. You can seek suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online search. It is recommended to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms and issues caused by them. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will go over your your child's medical history and family information, school records and other reports.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be trickier because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily geared towards diagnosing children. diagnosing adhd in adults will interview you or your child about the signs and may also ask other people who spend long periods 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 atomox as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment, which teaches skills like managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also help patients learn to manage their symptoms through lifestyle adjustments. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential as well. People suffering from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. Making social and family relationships a top priority can help decrease stress and help people feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children an understanding understanding of their challenges. For instance, a child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to peers and teachers however, once a teacher is aware that it's not due to a lack of motivation accommodations can be provided.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions geared to the individual's age, speak with family and teachers, review medical records, and look for any comorbidities. For adults, school records might be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
A physical exam is typically included, and the expert will likely look for hearing and vision problems. The doctor may also perform a blood test to look for certain hormones and other health issues that could cause ADHD-like symptoms.