How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is just a child's condition however, it can affect adults. Diagnosed and treated for ADHD an individual can improve their life.
Interviewing the individual and their family members may be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The doctor may also look over the school records of the past to determine if symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying well-organized from time to time however, for those who suffers from ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and family life. To be able to identify the disorder, one must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly hinder everyday functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for a minimum of six months.
To determine a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient about their symptoms and ask about family medical history and any medical issues. They can also utilize rating scales to measure adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults might be asked to talk with their significant other or someone they know well. This isn't to doubt the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain insight into a person's behavior that can't be gathered from the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult 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 examination and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions out like thyroid problems or head injuries, which could cause similar symptoms. The provider will also check the patient's list of medications. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other ailments can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into consideration when suggesting treatment options. It's important that adults talk with their primary healthcare provider if they suspect they may be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in more than one setting (like school, home, and work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12 and must not be caused by a different disorder such as anxiety or depression.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will use a variety of tools during the assessment which include ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a detailed medical history. They may interview family members and friends to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire whether there are other physical or mental illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure there is no root cause for their issues, such as thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some cases the evaluator may want to conduct cognitive testing or request that the person undergo an imaging test in order to determine the cause of their symptoms such as learning disabilities. These people often present differently than those without these problems. For instance, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD would like to participate in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic opportunity to further research. However, participants should be aware that the main goal of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and not necessarily the guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect that you may have ADHD Find a doctor who is qualified to diagnose the disorder. 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 professionals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will ask the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and ask for details from other people in the person's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A professional will also want to examine any records that the individual may have, particularly old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past and, in order to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).
Physical examinations are also often performed. It is a way to identify any other medical problems that could be responsible for the symptoms, for example, seizure disorders or thyroid problems. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam which checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, designed to test intelligence and ability, might be used as well. In addition one could be asked to complete simple computer tasks that evaluate attention and memory. This could help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive or hyperactive or impulsive. The specialist will determine a treatment plan and make an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and change unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental healthcare specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medication. However, this is not the only method of treating the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies aid them in coping and live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and ways to manage it, may be included. They can also include family members, teachers and professionals.
It is essential to find a mental health professional or health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or do an online search. It's best to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The health care provider will ask you or your child about the symptoms and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health conditions that may trigger similar symptoms. They will review your or your child's medical and family history, school records, and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be a bit more difficult due to the fact that the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child regarding their symptoms, and may request others who spend a lot of time with them to complete 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have comorbid disorders, including anxiety or depression. The treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
Therapists can also help patients manage their symptoms through lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. In addition, making family and social relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
adult diagnosis adhd of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children an understanding comprehension of their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to teachers and peers however, when a teacher realizes that it's not due to personal issues or to laziness, accommodations can be made.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions geared to the individual's age, speak with family and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbidities. For adults, records from schools could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
The expert will also check for any vision or hearing problems with hearing or vision. He or she will also conduct a blood test to check for certain hormones as well as other health issues that may cause symptoms of ADHD.