How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can affect adults too. Diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can lead a happier life.
Interviewing the individual and their family members can be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist may examine old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as when a child.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school as well as home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and focusing from time to time. To be able to identify the disorder, a person must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly hinder everyday functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient about their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They can also utilize rating scales that measure a child's or adult's symptoms. These types of questionnaires are typically based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature.
adult adhd diagnoses may be asked to talk with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but to gain insight into their behavior that isn't obtained from a questionnaire. They may ask about childhood behavior and refer to the old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run lab tests to rule other ailments, such as thyroid problems or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the patient's medications. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other ailments can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatments. It's important that adults talk to their primary health care providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in more than one setting (like school, home, and work) and have a significant impact on functioning. They should also have been diagnosed before age 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will use a variety of tools during the assessment, including ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a detailed medical history. They might also talk to family members or friends to learn what the symptoms have done to them. They will also ask if there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions that have similar symptoms.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure 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 cognitive testing or ask the person to take an imaging test to determine the cause of their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People with these issues often appear differently than those without these problems. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, while girls show inattentive ones.
A few people suffering from ADHD would like to participate in studies to try out new treatments. While this is a fantastic way to help further research, it is important for participants to understand 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. For more information on clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD It is essential to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You could also ask your family physician or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a good choice.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents in the case of children, about their symptoms. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask others in the person's life for information, such as their spouses and their families. Personal insights will reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any old school records 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 have been present from the age of a child (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is also typically performed. It is a way to identify any other medical issues that could be the cause of the symptoms, for example, seizure disorders or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is usually conducted by the expert to check motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, designed to test the ability and intelligence of a person, could be utilized too. Additionally one could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test memory and attention. This can help the expert determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive, or hyperactive or impulsive. The expert will decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans usually include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and change unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy can be done by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medication. However, this is not the only treatment for the condition. Adults, teens and children are also able to benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to manage these symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and how to manage it, could be incorporated. They can include teachers, family members and professionals.
It is essential to locate a health care provider or mental health professional with previous experience treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online search. It is best to locate an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD or other disorders, your health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and problems caused by the condition. They will conduct an examination and check for other health problems that could cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of you or your child, as well as school records and other documents.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about their symptoms and ask others who spend a lot 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. ADHD medications include stimulants like the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and atomoxe and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD have comorbid disorders like depression or anxiety. Treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills like time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. For example an exercise routine that is regularly practiced can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is crucial for people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Lastly making relationships with family and friends a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid children and adults to recognize their issues. A child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their peers. When a teacher is aware that this is not an individual issue or because of their inability to communicate, they can make accommodations.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions that are geared towards the age of the person, talk to teachers and family members, review medical records, and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records could be useful for adults.
A physical exam is often included, and the specialist will likely look for hearing and vision problems. He or she could also conduct a blood test in order to check for certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause ADHD-like signs and symptoms.