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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can affect adults as well. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can help improve the quality of life of a person.
An assessment for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The specialist might review old school records to determine whether symptoms began in the early years of childhood.
Symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that impacts school, work, and home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organized from time to time. To be able to identify the disorder, one must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly hinder the daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis doctors will speak with the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about family medical history and any medical issues. They can also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
In adults, doctors may request a conversation with an intimate partner or others who know the patient. This isn't to question honesty, but to gain a better understanding of the behavior of a person that cannot be obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. They may ask about childhood behaviors and use the old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests on the lab to rule out other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the medication list of a patient. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other ailments. This is why it's important for adults to consult their primary healthcare providers when they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
adhd in adults diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms must appear in at least two different settings (such as school, home and at work) and affect the functioning of the individual. 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 different tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptom lists, standardized behaviour rating scales, and a detailed medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to determine what the symptoms have done to them. They may also inquire if there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to determine if there isn't any underlying cause of their problems such as thyroid issues and head injuries, as well as medication.
In certain instances, an evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, such as mood disorders, learning disabilities personality disorders, and alcohol abuse. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those without these problems. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to test new treatments. This is a great opportunity to further research. However, participants must be aware that the primary goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and is not an assurance of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they may have ADHD, it's important to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider if ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Word-of mouth recommendations are also a good alternative.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents, in the case of children, about their symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and ask for details from other people in the person's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insight can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
adhd diagnosis uk adult will also examine any old school records and reports, particularly those from the past. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past and, in order in order to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is also conducted. It's also a way to check for any other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is typically performed by a specialist to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may also be used. The test subject may be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This will help the professional determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive, or an impulsive. The expert will then determine the diagnosis and suggest treatment. The typical treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter destructive thought patterns. This therapy is usually performed by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD improve their condition by taking medications, however it's not the only option to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination can be beneficial to children, teens, and adults. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to manage these symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and ways to manage it, can be incorporated. They could 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 seek recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or perform an online search. It is best to locate a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To determine if your child has ADHD, the health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and problems caused by them. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for other health problems that could cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical history and family history, school records and other reports.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your doctor may interview you or your children about their symptoms and request that other people who spend lots 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. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities like time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. For instance exercising regularly can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat, and eat fewer fruits and vegetables than others. Lastly making family and social relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and help 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 with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to their teachers or friends. When a teacher is aware that this isn't an individual issue or due to laziness they can make adjustments.
A professional who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the age of the person, talk to family members and teachers, review medical records, and check for comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age, school records can be helpful for adults.
The expert will also check for any hearing or vision issues with hearing or vision. He or she could also conduct tests on blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.