How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is a child's condition but it can affect adults. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can live a better life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members may be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist might review old school records to see whether the symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that can affect school, work, and home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organised at times. To be considered to have the disorder, one must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas and demonstrate that the symptoms significantly impair everyday functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, as well as about any medical issues and family history. They can also use rating systems to measure symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
In adults, doctors may ask to speak with an intimate partner or others who know the patient well. This isn't to doubt honesty, but to gain a better understanding of a person's behavior that can't be obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult the old school records to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will conduct a physical exam and do tests in the lab to rule out any other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the patient's medications. adhd diagnoses will look at the interactions between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other ailments. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to consult their primary care providers if they think they might be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in two or more settings (like home, school and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. They must also have started before age 12, and the impairment must not be caused by a different disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will use a variety of tools during an evaluation which include ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They can also speak with family members or friends to determine what the symptoms have done to them. They can also inquire whether there are any other physical or mental conditions that exhibit similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also look into the person's medical and family background to determine if there is any underlying causes of their problem for example, thyroid problems or head injuries.
In certain instances an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. People suffering from these disorders tend to show different symptoms than those who don't have them. For example, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while girls show inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD would like to participate in an experiment in order to test new treatments. This is a great opportunity to further research. However, participants must be aware that the main purpose of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge, not the guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information on clinical trials.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD, it's important to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider if ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also an alternative.
A doctor will ask 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 the patient's life for information, such as their spouses and their families. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records particularly old reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must be present from childhood (technically prior to age 12).
A physical examination is also conducted. It is also checked for any other medical issues that may cause symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizures. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests to measure the ability to think and be smart could be used. A person may be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or not. The specialist will then decide on a 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 alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy can be provided by a primary physician or a mental health professional who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medication, but it's not the only method to treat the condition. Adults, teenagers and children can also benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to manage these symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be included. They can also include family members, teachers and professionals.
It is essential to locate an expert in mental health or health care provider who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or perform an online search. It's best to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To determine if your child has ADHD to determine the cause, a health care professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by the condition. They will conduct a physical examination 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) (DSM-V) which is primarily designed to diagnose children is more difficult diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about their symptoms and request that other people who spend lots 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 such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD also have comorbid disorders, like depression or anxiety. This is why treatment should include therapy that addresses 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 help patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is crucial too. People who suffer from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. Lastly making social and family relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can help children and adults better comprehend their difficulties. For instance, a child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to peers and teachers however, when a teacher realizes that it's not due to inattention, accommodations can be made.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared towards the person's specific age, interview family and teachers, look over medical records, and check for any comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms first started before age, school records can be helpful for adults.
A physical exam is usually included, and the specialist will likely check for hearing and vision problems. He or she will also do tests on the blood to determine the presence of certain hormones as well as other health conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.