How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, however it can also affect adults. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can live a better life.
Interviewing the person and their family members may be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist may review old school records to determine whether symptoms began as when a child.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that can affect school, work as well as home life. Everyone has difficulty concentrating and staying organized at times. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas and they must be able to significantly impact everyday functioning to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and inquire about their family medical history and any medical issues. They can also use rating systems to assess symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are often based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature.
Adults might be asked to talk with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but rather to gain a better understanding of their behavior that isn't gained from a questionnaire. They may also ask about childhood behavior and use old school records to determine if the symptoms started 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 can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the person's list of medications. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when suggesting treatment options. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to consult their primary care providers if they think they might have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must manifest in at least two different settings (such as at home, school, and work) and cause impairment to functioning. The symptoms must have manifested before the age of 12 and must not be caused by another disorder like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will use various tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptom lists and standardized scales for assessing behaviour and a thorough medical history. They might also talk to family members and friends to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask whether there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also look into the patient's medical and family background to determine if there is any underlying causes for their issue like thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In certain instances the examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to determine the cause of their symptoms, such as learning disabilities. People who suffer from these issues tend to show different symptoms than those who do not have them. For instance, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is an excellent opportunity to further research. However, participants must be aware that the main objective of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and is not a guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they may have ADHD It is essential to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire for confirmation if ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Word-of mouth recommendations are also a good alternative.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask other people in the patient's life for information including spouses and their families. More reveals more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any old school records and reports, particularly those from the past. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past and, in order in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present from childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also performed. It's also examined for any other medical conditions that could be causing symptoms, such thyroid problems or seizures. A neurological examination is often carried out by an expert to check motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to assess abilities and intelligence, may be utilized too. A person may also be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could help an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will then determine the diagnosis and suggest treatment. Treatment plans usually comprise therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thought patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary doctor or a mental healthcare specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medication, but it's not the only option to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults can also benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage these symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They could include teachers, family members and professionals.
It is crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health care professional who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can ask your friends who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or a mental health practitioner you trust. You can also do an internet search. It is important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
To determine if your child has ADHD or other disorders, your health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms and problems caused by them. They will do a physical exam and check for other health problems that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical history and family information, school records and other reports.
Finding out if you have ADHD in adults can be a bit more difficult due to the fact that the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your doctor will ask you or your child about their symptoms, and may request others who spend a lot of time with them to 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. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
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 might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
Therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For example exercising regularly can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is important; people with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer fruits and vegetables than others. Making social and family relationships a top priority can help decrease stress and help people feel more in charge of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children an understanding understanding of their challenges. A child diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers or peers. When a teacher is aware that this isn't an individual issue or because of a lack of time, they can make accommodations.
A professional who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the person's age, interview family members and teachers and review medical records and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. For adults, school records might be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
A physical exam is often included, and the doctor will likely test for hearing and vision issues. They could also conduct tests on blood to test for certain hormones, as well as other health conditions which can cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.