How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a normal child's condition however, it can affect adults. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can improve their life.
Interviewing the individual and their family members may be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The doctor may also examine old school records in order to determine if symptoms began as an infant.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating 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. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect the way they function in their daily lives for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for a minimum of six months.
To establish a diagnosis a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and ask about family history and medical problems. They can also use rating scales to assess a adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are usually based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults may be asked to talk with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This isn't to doubt honesty, but to gain more insight into a person's behavior that can't be gleaned from an interview. They might inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records in order to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining the cause, the doctor will perform an extensive physical examination and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions, such as thyroid problems or head injuries, which can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the person's list of medications. Doctors will look at the interactions between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other conditions. This is why it's essential for adults to speak to their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in more than one setting (like school, home and work) and seriously hinder functioning. They should also have been diagnosed before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by another disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will employ a variety tools during the evaluation that include ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They may also interview friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also look into the patient's medical and family history in order to determine if there are any underlying causes for their issue like thyroid problems or head injuries.
In some cases an evaluator might decide to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, such as mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or substance abuse. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those without these problems. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls display inattentional symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to test new treatments. This is an excellent opportunity to continue research. However, participants must be aware that the primary objective of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and not necessarily an assurance of treatment. For more information about clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD, it's important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a good option.
getting diagnosed with adhd as an adult will talk to the patient -or their parents, in the case of children -- about symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and request information from other people in the person's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insights will reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to examine any records that the individual may have, particularly old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually dependent on the past of a person. To be diagnosed the symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is also performed. It is also checked for any other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, for instance thyroid problems or seizures. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological exam, which checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, which are designed to measure intelligence and ability, might be used as well. A person may be required to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This can help an expert determine if someone is hyperactive or inattentive. The specialist will then determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. The treatment typically includes therapy and medication. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can help children and adults learn healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy can be done by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication. However, this is not the only way to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults are also able to benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or any combination of the two. These therapies aid them in coping and cope with their ADHD symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can also involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It's crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health care professional with experience treating ADHD. You can seek suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or perform an online search. It is best to locate a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will inquire with you or your child about the symptoms and issues caused by ADHD. They will do an examination and check for other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review your or your child's medical history and family history, school records, and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) (DSM-V) which is designed to diagnose children is more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your doctor may interview you or your children about their symptoms and ask other people who spend lots of time with them to 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. The drugs used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle changes. For instance exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat, and eat fewer vegetables and fruits than other people. Also making social and family relationships 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 can give adults and children a better awareness of their difficulties. A child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their peers. Once a teacher understands that this is not a personal issue or because of their inability to communicate, they can provide adjustments.
A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are geared towards the person's specific age, interview family and teachers, review medical records, and check for any comorbidities. 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 expert will likely check for vision and hearing problems. He or she will also perform tests on the blood to look for certain hormones and other health issues that could cause ADHD-like symptoms.