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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is just a child's condition but it can affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can improve the quality of life of a person.
Interviewing the individual and their family members may be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist could look through the school records from the past to determine whether the symptoms started in childhood.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that impacts school, work as well as home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and focusing at times. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas, and that they significantly affect the daily functioning of the person to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must be present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about family medical history and any medical issues. They may also use rating scales to assess a adult's or child's symptoms. These types of questionnaires are typically built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
For adults, doctors might ask to speak with a significant other or people who are familiar with the patient. This is not to question the patient's honesty, but to gain more insight about their behavior that isn't gained from the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behaviors and use the old school records to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an examination and lab tests to rule out any other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the patient's list of medications. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to talk to their primary care physicians in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in two or more settings (like school, home and work) and significantly interfere with functioning. They also must have begun before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, like depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional or doctor will use a variety of tools during the assessment, including ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed history. They might also talk to family members or friends to determine how the symptoms affect them. They may also inquire if there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also examine the patient's medical and family history in order to determine if there are underlying causes of their problem like thyroid problems or head injuries.
In some instances, the evaluator might want to conduct a cognitive test or request that the person undergo an imaging test in order to rule out other causes for their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those who do not have these issues. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, while girls show inattentive ones.
Many people with ADHD might be interested in participating in studies to try out new treatments. While this is an excellent method to aid in further research, it is crucial for participants to know that the main purpose of these studies is to increase scientific knowledge and do not necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have ADHD seek out a specialist who is qualified to recognize the disorder. Ask get diagnosed with adhd for confirmation if ADHD specialists will be covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a good option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -or their parents in the case of children -- about symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask other people in the patient's life for details like their spouses and their families. Personal insight often uncovers more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to look over any documents the person might have, especially old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).
adhd diagnosis adult are also usually done. It checks for other medical problems that could be the cause of symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid problems. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam, that checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may be used. Additionally the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This will help the professional determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive, or impulsive. The expert will decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental health specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication. However it is not the only way to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults can also benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage them. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and how to manage it, could be included. They can include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It is essential to find a health care provider or mental health professional who has previous experience treating ADHD. You can ask for recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online search. It is important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
The health care provider will inquire with you or your child about symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will do an examination and check for other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of you or your child and also school documents and other reports.
Finding out if you have ADHD in adults can be trickier because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily geared towards diagnosing children. Your health care provider will interview you or your child regarding their symptoms and may also request others who spend a lot of time 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. ADHD medications include stimulants like the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and atomoxe and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD have comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy which teaches techniques such as time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can help patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is essential as well. People suffering from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. Also, making relationships with family and friends a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give children and adults a clearer comprehension of their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her demands to peers and teachers However, once a teacher understands that it's not personal or due to laziness, accommodations can be made.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions that are geared to the person's age, interview family and teachers, review medical records, and check for any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.
A physical exam is typically included, and the doctor will likely check for hearing and vision issues. He or she will also perform a blood test to look for specific hormones and other health issues that may cause symptoms of ADHD.