How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is just a child's issue but it can affect adults. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can lead a happier life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members may be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist might review the school records from the past to determine whether the symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time-to-time however, for those who has ADHD, these problems interfere with school, work and even home life. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas, and they must be able to significantly impact the way they function in their daily lives to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family history and medical conditions. They can also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are often constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
For adults, doctors might ask to speak with a significant other or people who know the patient well. This isn't to doubt honesty, but to gain more insight into a person's behavior that can't be gleaned from a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will conduct an extensive physical exam and run tests in the lab to rule out other ailments, such as thyroid problems or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also check the person's list of medications. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other ailments may be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when recommending treatments. This is why it's important for adults to consult their primary healthcare providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must appear in at least two settings (such as home, school, and work) and cause impairment to functioning. They must also have started at the age of 12 and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety tools during the evaluation which include ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They might also talk to friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask whether there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also review the patient's medical and familial history in order to determine if there is any root causes behind their condition, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In some instances, the evaluator might want to conduct cognitive testing or ask the person to take an imaging test in order to rule out other causes of their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People who suffer from these issues often present very differently from those who do not have them. For instance, boys are more likely to have hyperactive symptoms while girls show inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical trial to test new treatments. While this is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to further research, it is important for participants to know that the purpose behind these studies is to acquire knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily guarantee that they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they have ADHD, it's important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Make sure to check with your health insurance provider to see whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also seek recommendations from family doctors or other health care providers. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask other people in a person's life for details like their spouses and families. Personal insight will reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also examine any documents from the past and reports, particularly those from the past. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history, and to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must be present since childhood (technically prior to age 12).
A physical exam is also usually done. It is a way to identify any other medical problems that could be responsible for the symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological examination is often carried out by an expert to assess the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may be utilized. A person may be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This can help an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or inattentive. The specialist will then determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans usually consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and help change negative thinking patterns. This therapy can be done by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication, but it's not the only method to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of both can be beneficial for teenagers, children, and adults. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to manage these symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be incorporated. adult diagnosis of adhd can involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It is essential to find a mental health professional or health care provider who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can ask for recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or perform an online search. It is essential to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
The health professional will ask you or your child about symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will conduct a physical exam and check for other health problems which could trigger similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical and family information, school records and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about their symptoms and request that 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders like depression or anxiety. The treatment should therefore include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills such as time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. For instance, a regular exercise routine can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also crucial for people with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer vegetables and fruits than other people. Lastly making social and family relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid adults and children to understand their challenges. A child diagnosed with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their other peers. Once a teacher realizes that this is not an issue that is solely because of a lack of time, they can offer accommodations.
A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared to the person's age, talk to family members and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records could be helpful for adults.
A physical exam is typically included, and the doctor will likely check for hearing and vision issues. The doctor may also perform tests on the blood to look for specific hormones and other health issues that could cause symptoms of ADHD.