How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, but it can affect adults too. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life for a person.
Interviewing the person and their family members may be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist could look through old school records to determine if symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that can affect school, work as well as home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organised from time to time. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect the daily functioning of the person to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about his or her symptoms, and also regarding any medical issues or family history. They may also use rating scales to assess a adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are often based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These questionnaires ask regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
Adults may be asked to talk with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This isn't to doubt the honesty of the patient, but to gain a better understanding of a person's behavior that can't be gleaned from a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at old school records to see whether the symptoms began before age 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will perform an examination and tests in the lab to rule out other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries that may cause similar symptoms. The provider will also check the patient's medication list. Doctors will look at the interactions between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other conditions. This is why it's essential for adults to talk to their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in at least two places (such as school, home, and work) and interfere with functioning. They must also have started before age 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, like depression or anxiety.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will use a variety of tools during the evaluation that include ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed medical history. They might also talk to friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask if there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions that have similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to determine if there isn't any underlying reason for their symptoms like thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some cases the examiner may decide to conduct cognitive testing or request the person undergo an imaging test in order to determine the cause of their symptoms like learning disabilities. People suffering from these disorders tend to show different symptoms than those who do not suffer from them. For instance, boys tend to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls show inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test new treatments. While this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to further research, it is important for participants to understand that the main purpose of 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 on clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect you might have ADHD Find a doctor who is qualified to recognize the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to determine whether ADHD specialists are covered, and seek out referrals from your family doctor or other health professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good alternative.
how is adhd diagnosed in adults will inquire with the patient or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. They may use standard questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, or ask for information from other people in the patient's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight often uncovers more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
A professional will also want to examine any records that the individual may have, especially old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by the past of the individual. To be diagnosed the symptoms must have been present from childhood (technically before age 12).
A physical examination is also conducted. It is also checked for other medical conditions which could be causing symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid problems. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests to measure the level of intelligence and ability can be used. The test subject may be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could help an expert determine if the person is hyperactive or not. The expert will then decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medication. However this isn't 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 help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to manage the symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be included. They can include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It is crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health care provider with experience treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or do an online search. It's best to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will ask you or your child about the signs and problems caused by ADHD. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you along with school records and other documents.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily designed to diagnose children, has a more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will ask you or your child regarding their symptoms and may 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 such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine and nonstimulants like atomoxetine as well as certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, including anxiety or depression. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
Therapists can also help patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is crucial for people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer fruits and vegetables than others. In addition making relationships with family and friends an important factor can reduce stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid adults and children to understand their challenges. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to teachers and peers, but when a teacher realizes that it's not due to personal issues or to laziness, accommodations can be provided.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the age of the person, talk to teachers and relatives as well as review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The specialist will also check for any vision or hearing problems. They may also conduct an analysis of blood to look for specific hormones and other health issues that may cause ADHD-like symptoms.