How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, but it can affect adults as well. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can live a better life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members may be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist may look over old school records to determine whether the symptoms started in childhood.
Symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that impacts school, work, and home life. Everyone has difficulty concentrating and staying organised from time to time. To be diagnosed with the disorder, one must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect everyday functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and ask about family history and medical conditions. They may also employ rating systems to gauge symptoms in adults or children. These types of questionnaires are typically based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
adhd diagnosis adults might be asked to speak with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This isn't to question the honesty of the patient, but to gain more insight into the person's behavior that cannot be gleaned from the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behavior and refer to the old school records to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run lab tests to rule other conditions, such as thyroid problems or head injuries, which could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the person's list of medications. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other conditions. It is crucial that adults speak to their primary healthcare providers when they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD, symptoms must manifest in at least two different settings (such as school, home, and work) and interfere with functioning. adhd diagnosis adults must have appeared before the age of 12 and can't be caused by a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will use a variety of tools during the assessment, including ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed history. They might also talk to family members and friends to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They'll ask whether the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions.
Evaluators will take into account whether symptoms are mild or severe. They will also examine the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there isn't any underlying reason for their symptoms such as thyroid issues and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some cases an examiner may decide to perform cognitive testing or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities personality disorders, and addiction to drugs. People who suffer from these issues often present very differently from those who don't have them. For example, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. While this is a great way to help further research, it is crucial for participants to realize that the purpose behind these studies is to acquire knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they may have ADHD, it's important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -or their parents, in the case of children -- about the symptoms. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and also ask others in the person's life for information including spouses and their families. Personal experience often reveals more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A professional will also want to look over any documents that the individual may have, especially old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often based on the history of the individual. To be diagnosed the symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical examination is also performed. It will look for any other medical problems that could be the cause of the symptoms, for example, seizure disorders or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is usually carried out by an expert to check the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test the level of intelligence and ability can be used. A person could also be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This will help the professional determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive or an impulsive. The expert will decide on the treatment plan and provide a diagnosis. Treatment plans typically include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy is usually performed by an primary care physician or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve by taking medication. However this isn't the only way to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults can also benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to manage the symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can also involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It is essential to locate a health care provider or mental health professional who has experience treating ADHD. You can ask others with ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you've met. You can also conduct an internet search. It's best to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The health professional will inquire with you or your child about the symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will perform physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of your child or you and also school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is primarily designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about their symptoms and ask others who spend a lot of time with them to fill out checklists and questionnaires. 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 like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders like anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment which teaches techniques such as time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
In addition, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle modifications. For example exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. 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 social and family relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children a better awareness of their difficulties. A child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their needs to teachers or other peers. Once a teacher understands that this isn't an issue that is solely due to laziness they can provide adjustments.
A professional who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the individual's age, ask questions of family members and teachers as well as review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
diagnosis adhd will also check for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. They may also perform an analysis of blood to look for certain hormones as well as other health conditions that can cause symptoms of ADHD.