How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe ADHD is a normal condition that affects children but it can affect adults. Diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can improve their life.
An evaluation for ADHD might include interviewing the person and family members. The specialist might review old school records to see whether the symptoms started in childhood.
Symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time to time However, for those who suffers from ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and even home life. To be able to identify the disorder, someone must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect everyday functioning. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, and also regarding any medical issues or family history. They may also employ rating systems to measure symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
source web page might be asked to speak with their significant other or someone who knows them well. This isn't to doubt the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain insight into a person's behavior that can't be obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining the cause, the doctor will conduct an extensive physical exam and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions out, such as thyroid problems or head injuries, which could cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review a person's medication list. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other ailments. This is why it's essential for adults to speak to their primary care physicians if they think they might have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in two or more settings (like school, home and work) and seriously hinder functioning. The symptoms must have manifested before the age of 12 and can't be caused by a different disorder such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional will use various tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptom lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour and a thorough medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to learn how the symptoms have affected them. They may also inquire whether there are any other physical or mental conditions that have similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there is no root cause for their issues such as thyroid issues and head injuries, as well as medication.
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 often present very differently from those who do not suffer from them. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. This is a great opportunity to continue research. However, participants must be aware that the main objective of these studies is scientific knowledge, not the guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect that you might have ADHD seek out a specialist who is certified to diagnose the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to see if ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek recommendations from family doctors or other health professionals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will ask the patient - or their 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, such as spouses and family members. Personal insight often uncovers more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
Experts will also examine any documents from the past and reports, particularly those from the past. The diagnosis of ADHD is often dependent on the past of a person. To be diagnosed the symptoms must be present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also often performed. It's also a way to check for other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is usually conducted by the expert to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests to measure intelligence and abilities may be utilized. A person may be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive, or an impulsive. The specialist will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping techniques and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy can be provided by a primary doctor or a mental health specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve by taking medication. However this isn't the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of the two can be beneficial for adolescents, children and adults. These therapies assist them to cope and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can also involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It is essential to locate a health care provider or mental health professional with expertise in treating ADHD. You can ask for suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or conduct an online search. It is best to locate an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD to determine the cause, a health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and problems caused by them. They will perform a physical examination and check for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of your child or you along with school documents and other reports.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be trickier because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your doctor may interview you or your children about their symptoms and ask others who spend a lot of time with them 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. ADHD medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, including depression or anxiety. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For example exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and consume less fruits and vegetables than others. Making social and family relationships a top priority can help decrease anxiety and make people feel more in charge of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid adults and children to recognize their issues. A child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their other peers. Once a teacher realizes that this isn't an individual issue or due to laziness they can make adjustments.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are targeted to the person's age, interview family and teachers, review medical records, and check for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age, school records can be helpful for adults.
A physical exam is usually included, and the expert will likely check for hearing and vision issues. They may also do tests on the blood to check for certain hormones and other health issues that could cause symptoms of ADHD.