How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is just a condition that affects children, but it can also affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can help improve a person's life.
A diagnosis for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The doctor may also review old school records in order to determine if symptoms began as a child.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that impacts school, work as well as home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organised from time to time. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas, and they must be able to significantly impact everyday functioning to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical issues and family history. They may also use rating systems to measure symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These questionnaires ask about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive.
In adult patients, doctors may require a discussion with an intimate partner or others who know the patient. This isn't to question honesty, but to gain a better understanding of the person's behavior that cannot be gleaned from the answers to a questionnaire. They may ask about childhood behavior and refer to old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will conduct physical examinations and 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 medication list of a patient. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other ailments. It's important that adults talk to their primary health care providers if they suspect they may be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must manifest in at least two places (such as home, school and at work) and interfere with functioning. They also must have begun before the age of 12, and the impairment can't be due to another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
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 detailed medical history. They may interview family members and friends to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire whether the symptoms are similar to those of other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to make sure there is no underlying cause of their problems such as thyroid issues and head injuries, as well as medication.
In certain instances an evaluator might decide to perform cognitive testing or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders and addiction to drugs. People with these problems tend to show different symptoms than those who do not have them. For instance, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. While this is a great way to help further research, it's important for participants to understand that the purpose behind these studies is to acquire information from the scientific community and does not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD it is important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider for confirmation if ADHD specialists will be covered. You could also ask your family physician or other health professionals for referrals. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a good choice.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or parents in the case of children - about the symptoms they experience. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and also ask others in the person's life for details, such as their spouses and families. Personal experience often reveals more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also examine any old school records, and especially old reports. 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 the age of 12).
A physical exam is also performed. It will look for any other medical conditions that may be the cause of the symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The expert will often conduct a neurological examination, which tests for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to measure the ability and intelligence of a person, could be utilized too. In addition the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test attention and memory. This can help an expert determine if the person is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will then decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. Treatment plans usually include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thought patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental health professional who is a specialist in adult ADHD.
adhd diagnosis in adult suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication, though it's not the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of both can be beneficial to children, teens as well as adults. These therapies aid them in coping and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can also include teachers, family members and professionals.
It is important to find a health care provider or mental health professional with previous experience treating ADHD. You can ask others with ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you've met. You can also do an internet search. It is recommended to find an expert 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 and issues caused by the condition. They will conduct an examination and check for other health issues which could trigger similar symptoms. They will review your or your child's medical history and family history, school records, and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) (DSM-V) which is primarily designed to diagnose children is more difficult time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about the symptoms and have other people who spend lots of time with them 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 the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and atomoxe, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD have co-occurring disorders like anxiety or depression. This is why treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches skills such as managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. For instance an exercise routine that is regularly practiced can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthy diet is essential as well. People suffering from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar, and less fruits and vegetables. In addition, making family and social relationships a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children an understanding comprehension of their issues. A child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating their requirements to teachers or their other peers. Once a teacher understands that this is not an individual issue or because of their inability to communicate, they can offer accommodations.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are targeted to the individual's age, interview family and teachers, review medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could help determine if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
A physical exam is typically included, and the doctor will likely test for vision and hearing problems. They might also conduct tests on blood to test for certain hormones, and other health conditions which can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.