How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, but it can affect adults too. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD an individual can live a better life.
An evaluation for ADHD might include interviewing the patient and their family members. The specialist could look over old school records to determine whether symptoms began as when a child.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school, and home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organized at times. To be able to identify the disorder, a person must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly impair the daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for a minimum of six months.
A doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical issues and family history. They may also use rating systems to measure symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are usually built 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.
Adults might be asked to speak with their spouse or someone they know well. This isn't to doubt the honesty of the patient, but to gain more insight into the behavior of a person that cannot be gathered from a questionnaire. They might inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult old school records in order to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct an examination and lab tests to rule out other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over a person's medication list. Doctors will look at the interactions between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other issues. This is why it's essential for adults to speak to their primary care physicians in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must manifest in at least two settings (such as home, school, and work) and affect the functioning of the individual. They must also have started before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety tools during an evaluation, including ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They may interview 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 exhibit similar symptoms.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also examine the patient's medical and family background to determine if there are any underlying causes for their issue like thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In some cases the examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request that the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities. These people often present differently from those with no issues. For instance, boys are more likely to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD would like to participate in an experiment in order to test out new treatments. While this is an excellent method to aid in further research, it's important for participants to realize that the main purpose of these studies is to increase scientific knowledge and do not necessarily guarantee that they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect you may have ADHD seek out a specialist who is qualified to identify the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to determine whether ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek referrals from your family doctor or other health care professionals. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a great option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. They can use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and ask for information from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insights will reveal more than can be learned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need 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 a person. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is also performed. It will look for any other medical conditions that may be the cause of symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological examination, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, designed to test abilities and intelligence, may be utilized too. In addition one could be asked to complete simple computer tasks that test attention and memory. This can help the expert determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive, or impulsive. The expert will decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy is usually performed by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve their condition by taking medications, however it's not the only method to treat the condition. Adults, teenagers and children can also benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or the combination of both. These therapies help them cope and cope with their ADHD symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can include teachers, family members and professionals.
It is essential to locate an expert in mental health or health care professional with experience treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online search. read review is essential to find a specialist familiar with your insurance.
The health care provider will inquire with you or your child about the signs and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will conduct a physical exam and check for any other health issues which could trigger similar symptoms. They will look over your your child's medical and family information, school records and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your health care provider will ask you or your child about their symptoms and may ask others who spend many hours 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 the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and atomoxe and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. This is why treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also essential for those with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat, and eat fewer fruits and vegetables than others. In addition, making family and social relationships a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides children and adults a clearer awareness of their difficulties. For instance, a child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to teachers and peers however, once a teacher understands that it's not due to personal issues or to laziness, accommodations can be implemented.
A professional doing an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the person's age, interview family members and teachers and review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
A physical exam is often included, and the specialist will likely test for hearing and vision issues. They could also conduct an examination of the blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, as well as other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.