How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, but it can affect adults as well. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can improve the quality of life for a person.
An assessment for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The doctor may also examine the school records of the past to determine whether symptoms began as a child.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying well-organized from time to time however, for those who suffers from ADHD, these problems interfere with school, work and family life. A person must show 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.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, as well as about any medical concerns and family history. They can also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
Adults may be asked to talk with their significant other or someone who knows them well. This isn't to question the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain a better understanding of the person's behavior that cannot be gathered from an interview. You can also inquire about childhood behavior and use old school records to determine if the symptoms started before age 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests in the lab to rule out other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review the patient's medications. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to speak to their primary healthcare providers if they think they might have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in more than one setting (like school, home and at work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12 and can't be caused by another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional uses various tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour, and a detailed medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to find out how the symptoms have affected them. They will also ask if there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also examine the person's medical and family background to determine if there are any root causes behind their condition for example, thyroid issues or head injuries.
In certain instances the examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms like learning disabilities. People with these problems often present very differently from those who do not suffer from them. For example, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test new treatments. This is a fantastic opportunity to continue research. However, participants should be aware that the primary goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily an assurance of treatment. For diagnosis adhd about clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect you might have ADHD seek out a specialist who is certified to recognize the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider if ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a good option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in a person's life for details like their spouses and families. Personal insight can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
A professional will also want to examine any records that the person may have, including old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, in order to be able to identify the condition, the symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical examination is also performed. It is also checked for other medical conditions that may cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid problems. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological examination, which checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that measure the level of intelligence and ability can also be used. The test subject may be required to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This can help an expert determine whether someone is hyperactive or not. The expert will determine the diagnosis and suggest treatment. Treatment plans usually comprise therapy and medication. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy can be provided by a primary physician or a mental healthcare professional who is a specialist in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medication. However it is not the only way to treat the condition. Adults, teens and children can also benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies help them cope and cope with their ADHD symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It is essential to find a mental health professional or health care professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask your friends who suffer from ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you know. You can also do an online search. It is recommended to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The health care provider will inquire with you or your child about the symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will perform physical examinations and check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you, as well as school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is designed to diagnose children is more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will ask you or your child about the signs, and may ask other people who spend long periods of time with them to complete 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 like atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing the 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 include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities such as time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce stress and make individuals feel more in control of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children an understanding understanding of their challenges. A child diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble communicating their requirements to teachers or their friends. Once a teacher understands that this is not an issue that is solely because of a lack of time, they can provide accommodations.
A professional who conducts an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the individual's age, ask questions of family members and teachers and review medical records and look for comorbidities. For adults, records from schools could be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
A physical exam is usually included, and the doctor will likely look for hearing and vision problems. They may also perform a blood test to determine the presence of certain hormones and other health conditions that can cause ADHD-like symptoms.