How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can affect adults too. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD an individual can lead a happier life.
An evaluation for ADHD might include interviewing the person and family members. The specialist could review old school records to determine if the symptoms started as a child.
Symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that can affect school, work and family life. Everyone struggles with concentration and focusing at times. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a person must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, doctors will speak with the patient about their symptoms and ask about their family history and medical conditions. They may also employ rating systems to measure symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are often based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
In adults, doctors may require a discussion with an intimate partner or others who know the patient. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but rather to gain insight into their behavior that can't be obtained from an interview. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior and consult the old school records to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before determining the cause, the doctor will conduct an extensive physical examination and run tests in order to rule other ailments like thyroid problems or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review a person's medication list. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other issues. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to consult their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in at least two or more environments (like school, home and work) and have a significant impact on functioning. They must also have started before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be due to another disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety of tools during an evaluation, including ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They may also interview family members or friends to determine what the symptoms have done to them. They can also inquire whether there are other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions that have similar symptoms.
Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to determine if there isn't any underlying cause for their issues such as thyroid issues and head injuries, as well as medication.
In certain instances the evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or ask the person to undergo an imaging test in order to rule out other causes of their symptoms, such as learning disabilities. These people often present differently than those without these problems. For example, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while girls show inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD would like to participate in a clinical study to test new treatments. This is a fantastic chance to conduct further research. However, participants must be aware that the main purpose of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and is not a guarantee of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD, it's important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare providers for referrals. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a great option.
A doctor will ask the patient or their parents in the case of children - about the symptoms they experience. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and ask others in the person's life for details like their spouses and their families. Personal experience often reveals more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
Experts will also examine any documents from the past particularly old reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically before age 12).
Physical examinations are also usually done. It checks for other medical issues that could be responsible for the symptoms, such as seizure disorders or thyroid problems. The expert will often conduct a neurological exam, that checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, which are designed to measure the ability and intelligence of a person, could be used as well. In addition, a person might be asked to perform simple computer tasks that evaluate memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or not. The expert will then decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. The treatment typically includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy ways to cope and change negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental health professional who is a specialist in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve their condition by taking medications, however it's not the only option to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults are also able to benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or the combination of both. These therapies aid them in coping and live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, could be incorporated. They may involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It's crucial to locate a mental health professional or health care provider with experience treating ADHD. You can ask other people who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or a mental health provider you've met. You can also do an internet search. It is recommended to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To determine if your child has ADHD to determine the cause, a health care provider will ask about your your child's symptoms and issues caused by the condition. They will conduct a physical examination and check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review your your child's medical history and family information, school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) (DSM-V) which is designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your doctor may interview you or your children about the symptoms and request that other people who spend lots of time with them to fill out 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders such as anxiety or depression. Treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills such as time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
In addition, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is crucial as well. People with ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar, and less fruits and vegetables. In addition making relationships with family and friends prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives.
getting diagnosed with adhd of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children a better comprehension of their issues. A child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating their demands to their teachers or other peers. When a teacher is aware that this is not an individual issue or because of a lack of time, they can provide adjustments.
A professional doing an ADHD evaluation will ask questions that are geared towards the age of the person, talk to family members and teachers and review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood school records could be useful for adults.
A physical exam is typically included, and the specialist will likely test for hearing and vision issues. He or she might also conduct a blood test in order to test for certain hormones, and other health conditions that can cause ADHD-like signs and symptoms.