How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe ADHD is a normal child's condition however, it can affect adults. Diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can live a better life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members could be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist might review the school records from the past to determine whether symptoms began in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time-to-time however, for those who suffers from ADHD, these problems interfere with work, school and family life. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect the way they function in their daily lives to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis doctors will speak with the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They may also employ rating systems to assess symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are often built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
Adults might be asked to speak with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This isn't meant to challenge honesty, but to gain more insight into the person's behavior that cannot be obtained from an interview. They could inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult the old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run lab tests to rule other ailments for thyroid issues or head injuries, which could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other ailments can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will take these into consideration when suggesting treatment options. This is why it's important for adults to speak to their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD the symptoms must appear in at least two different settings (such as at home, school and at work) and affect the functioning of the individual. The symptoms must have manifested before the age of 12 and cannot be caused by a different disorder like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will use a variety of tools during the evaluation, including ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed medical history. They can also speak with family members or friends to find out how the symptoms affect them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to those of other psychiatric conditions or physical ailments.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also look into the patient's medical and family history in order to determine if there is any underlying causes for their issue like thyroid problems or head injuries.
In certain instances an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or request an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders and addiction to drugs. People with these problems often present very differently from those who do not suffer from them. For instance, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in an experiment in order to test new treatments. This is an excellent opportunity to continue research. However, participants should be aware that the primary goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily the guarantee of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect that you may have ADHD seek out a specialist who is trained to diagnose the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists are covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a good option.
A doctor will talk to the patient -- or their parents, in children's cases -- about the symptoms. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in the patient's life for details like their spouses and families. Personal insight can reveal more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any documents from the past particularly old reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present from 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 conditions that may be causing the symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test the ability to think and be smart could be used. A person could be required to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This could help an expert determine if someone is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will decide on the best treatment plan and then make an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans usually comprise therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping techniques and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy is usually performed by an primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medication, though it's not the only method to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination of both can be beneficial to teenagers, children and adults. These therapies aid them in coping and cope with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be incorporated. They can also include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It is crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can ask your friends who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health practitioner you trust. You can also conduct an online search. adhd adult diagnosis to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by them. They will do a physical exam and check for other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of your child or you, as well as school records and other documents.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily geared towards diagnosing children. Your doctor may interview you or your children about their symptoms and have other people who spend lots 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also have comorbid disorders, including anxiety or depression. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment, which teaches skills like managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.
Additionally, therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments. For example exercising regularly can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also crucial for people with ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Making social and family relationships priority can help reduce stress and help people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can help children and adults better comprehend their difficulties. A child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their requirements to teachers or their friends. Once a teacher understands that this isn't a personal issue or because of a lack of time, they can make accommodations.
getting diagnosed with adhd who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the person's age, interview teachers and family members, review medical records, and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
The expert will also check for any hearing or vision issues with hearing or vision. They could also conduct an examination of the blood to test for certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.