How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe ADHD is a condition that affects children however, it can affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life for a person.
An evaluation for ADHD could involve a conversation with the person and family members. The specialist could look over old school records in order to determine if symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying well-organized from time to time However, for those who has ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and home life. To be considered to have the disorder, one must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly hinder the daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire of the patient about his or her symptoms, as well as about any medical concerns and family history. They can also use rating systems to assess symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
In adult patients, doctors may require a discussion with an intimate partner or others who know the patient well. This isn't to question honesty, but to gain a better understanding of the behavior of a person that cannot be gathered from an interview. They could inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run tests in order to rule other conditions for thyroid issues or head injuries that could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over a person's medication list. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. It is essential that adults talk with their primary healthcare provider 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 at work) and affect the functioning of the individual. They should also have been diagnosed 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 assessment that include ADHD symptoms checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They may interview family members and friends to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask if there are any other physical or mental conditions that exhibit similar symptoms.
Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild or severe. adhd adults diagnosis will also review the person's medical and family background to determine if there is any underlying causes of their problem like thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In some cases an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or request an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders or substance abuse. People with these disorders often show different symptoms from those with no issues. For instance, boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls inattentive symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. While this is a fantastic way to help further research, it is important for participants to understand that the main purpose of these studies is to increase knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily guarantee that 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 Find a doctor who is trained to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire for confirmation if ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare providers for referrals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a good option.
A doctor will talk to the patient -or their parents in the case of children -- about their symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and also ask other people in the patient's life for information like their spouses and their families. Personal insight can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any documents from the past, and especially old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is also carried out. It is also checked for any other medical conditions which could be causing symptoms, such thyroid problems or seizures. The expert will often conduct a neurological exam, that checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test the level of intelligence and ability can be used. In addition one could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that evaluate attention and memory. This can help the expert determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive or hyperactive or impulsive. The expert will decide on the best treatment plan and then make a diagnosis. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping techniques and change destructive thought patterns. This therapy can be provided by a primary doctor or a mental healthcare professional who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medications, however it's not the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of the two can be beneficial for adolescents, children as well as adults. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to live with the symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can also involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It is essential to locate a health care provider or mental health professional with previous experience treating ADHD. You can ask for suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or perform an online search. It is essential to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
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 problems caused by the condition. They will conduct a physical examination and check for any other health conditions that may trigger similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of your child or you along with school records and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be trickier because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child about the signs and may 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD have comorbid disorders like depression or anxiety. This is why treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Additionally, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and less fruits and vegetables than others. Making family and social relationships a priority can reduce anxiety and make people feel more in charge of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children a better comprehension of their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating their needs to peers and teachers However, once a teacher understands that it's not due to inattention accommodations can be made.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are geared to the individual's age, talk to family members and teachers, read medical files, and check for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood, school records can be helpful for adults.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. He or she may also perform a blood test in order to check for certain hormones, as well as other health issues that could cause ADHD-like signs and symptoms.