How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is just a child's issue, but it can also affect adults. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can live a better life.
An evaluation for ADHD could involve a conversation with the person and family members. The specialist could look over old school records to determine if the symptoms started as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying well-organized from time to time, but for someone who suffers from ADHD this can cause problems with work, school and even home life. To be considered to have the disorder, someone must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect everyday functioning. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire of the patient about their symptoms, as well as about any medical issues and family history. They may also employ rating systems to measure symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
In adults, doctors may ask to speak with a significant other or people who know the patient well. 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 the answers to a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about childhood behavior and use old school records to see if the symptoms started before age 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will perform physical examinations and tests in the lab to rule out any other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the patient's medications. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other issues. This is why it's important for adults to speak to their primary care physicians in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in more than one setting (like home, school and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. They must also have started before the age of 12, and the impairment must not be caused by a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional uses various tools to evaluate the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists and standardized scales for assessing behaviour as well as a thorough medical history. how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult can also speak with family members or friends to find out how the symptoms affect them. They'll ask whether the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also review the person's medical and family history to determine if there are any underlying causes for their issue for example, thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In some instances an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, like learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders and addiction to drugs. People with these problems typically present differently than those who do not have them. For instance, boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls show inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test out new treatments. While this is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to further research, it is important for participants to understand that the purpose behind these studies is to acquire knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect you may have ADHD Find a doctor who is certified to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire if ADHD specialists will be covered. You could also ask your family physician or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Word-of mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. They may use standard questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and ask for information from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight often uncovers more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to review any records the person might have, especially old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person and, in order to be able to identify the condition, the symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is often performed. It's also a way to check for any other medical issues that may be causing symptoms, for instance thyroid problems or seizures. A neurological examination is often conducted by the expert to assess motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that measure the level of intelligence and ability can be used. The test subject may also be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This can help an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will choose a treatment plan and make an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans usually include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and help change negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medication. However, this is not the only way to treat the condition. Adults, teens and children can also benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to manage these symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and how to manage it, can be included. They can also involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It's crucial to find an expert in mental health or health care professional who has experience in treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or do an online search. It's important to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
To diagnose ADHD to determine the cause, a health professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms and issues caused by them. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical and family history, school records, and other reports.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be trickier because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about their symptoms and have others who spend a lot of time with them 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. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders such as depression or anxiety. This is why treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities like time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
In addition, therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential too. People with ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruit and vegetables. Making social and family relationships a priority can reduce stress and help people feel more in charge of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children an understanding comprehension of their issues. A child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating their needs to teachers or other peers. Once a teacher realizes that this isn't an individual issue or because of a lack of time, they can make adjustments.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are geared to the person's age, speak with family and teachers, look over medical files, and check for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood, school records can be helpful for adults.
The specialist will also check for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. He or she will also conduct a blood test to determine the presence of certain hormones and other health conditions that can cause ADHD-like symptoms.