How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is a normal condition that affects children, but it can also affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in a person's life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members can be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist may review the school records of the past to determine whether symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time to time however, for those who suffers from ADHD this can cause problems with school, work and home life. To be diagnosed with the disorder, one must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, doctors will speak with the patient about their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They may also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are often based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
In adult patients, doctors may request a conversation with a significant other or people who are familiar with the patient. This isn't to question the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain a better understanding of the behavior of a person that cannot be obtained from an interview. You can also inquire about their childhood behavior and consult the old school records to determine if the symptoms started before age 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will perform a physical exam and do tests in the lab to rule out any other health issues, like thyroid problems or head injuries that may cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the patient's list of medications. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other conditions can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will take these into consideration when recommending treatment options. It is crucial that adults speak to their primary healthcare providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in at least two or more environments (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 different tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists and standardized scales for assessing behaviour and a thorough medical history. They might also talk to family members or friends to find out how the symptoms have affected them. They will ask if the symptoms are similar to other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
The evaluators will consider whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also review the patient's medical and family history to determine if there are underlying causes of their problem, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In certain instances the examiner may decide to conduct cognitive testing or ask the person to take an imaging test to determine the cause of their symptoms like learning disabilities. People with these problems typically present differently than those who don't have 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 study to test new treatments. While this is a great method to aid in further research, it is crucial for participants to know that the primary purpose of these studies is to increase knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD It is essential to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider if ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for referrals. 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 symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in a person's life for details, such as their spouses and their families. Personal insights can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to look over any documents that the individual may have, especially old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present from childhood (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is typically performed. It's also a way to check for any other medical conditions that could cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. The expert will often conduct a neurological examination, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that measure the level of intelligence and ability can be utilized. In addition, a person might be asked to complete simple computer tasks that test attention and memory. This could help an expert determine whether someone is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will choose the treatment plan and provide a diagnosis. Typically, the treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help adults and children learn healthy ways to cope and change unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy can be done by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medication. However this isn't the only method of treating the condition. Children, teenagers and adults are also able to benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to live with them. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and how to manage it, could be incorporated. They could include family members, teachers and professionals.
It's important to find a medical professional or mental health professional who has expertise in treating ADHD. You can ask others who suffer from ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you've met. You can also do an internet search. It's important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
To diagnose ADHD or other disorders, your health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by the condition. They will perform physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that may trigger similar symptoms. They will go over your your child's medical and family history, school records, and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily designed to diagnose children is more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your doctor will ask you or your child regarding their symptoms and may also ask other people who spend many hours 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. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, like depression or anxiety. Because of adult diagnosis of adhd , 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 help patients manage their symptoms by making lifestyle modifications. For example exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthy diet is essential too. People suffering from ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat, and less fruits and vegetables. Lastly making relationships with family and friends prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides children and adults a clearer comprehension of their issues. For instance, a child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers and peers, but once a teacher understands that it's not due to personal issues or to inattention, accommodations can be implemented.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions that are targeted towards the person's specific age, talk to family members and teachers, look over medical files, and check for any comorbidities. For adults, records from school could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.
A physical exam is typically included, and the doctor will likely look for vision and hearing problems. The doctor might also conduct an examination of the blood to check for certain hormones, as well as other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.