How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is just a condition that affects children however, it can affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can help improve a person's life.
An assessment for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The specialist could look over old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as a child.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that affects work, school as well as home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organized at times. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect everyday functioning to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about his or her symptoms, and also regarding any medical issues or family history. They may also employ rating systems to gauge symptoms in adults or children. These types of questionnaires are typically constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
In adults, doctors may require a discussion with an intimate partner or others who know the patient. This isn't meant to challenge the honesty of the patient, but to gain insight into a person's behavior that can't be obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. You can also inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at old school records to determine whether the signs started 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 other health conditions, such as thyroid problems or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review the medication list of a patient. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other ailments. It's important that adults talk with their primary healthcare provider if they suspect they may be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD, the symptoms must be evident in at least two settings (such as home, school, and work) and affect the functioning of the individual. They also must have begun at the age of 12 and the impairment cannot be due to another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety tools during an evaluation, including ADHD symptom checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a thorough history. They might also talk to family members and friends to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to other mental health conditions or physical conditions.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to determine if there is no underlying cause of their problems such as thyroid issues, head injuries or medication.
In certain instances an examiner may decide to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, including learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders and substance abuse. People with these problems typically present differently than those who do not suffer from them. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD would like to participate in an experiment in order to test new treatments. While this is an excellent method to aid in further research, it is crucial for participants to realize that the main purpose of these studies is to increase scientific knowledge and do not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they may have ADHD It is essential to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to find out whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also seek recommendations from family doctors or other health professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good alternative.
A doctor will talk to the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children -- about the symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and also ask other people in the patient's life for information, such as their spouses and their families. Personal insights can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to review any records that the individual may have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often determined by the past of the individual. To be diagnosed, symptoms must have existed since the age of a child (technically, before the age 12).
A physical exam is usually done. It's also examined for any other medical conditions that could cause symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizures. A neurological exam is typically carried out by an expert to assess motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may be utilized. Additionally the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test memory and attention. adult adhd diagnoses can help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive or hyperactive or impulsive. The expert will choose a treatment plan and make an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy is offered 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, teens and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies help them cope and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They could include family members, teachers and professionals.
It is essential to find a mental health professional or health professional who has experience in treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or conduct an online search. It's best 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 your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by them. They will conduct physical examinations and check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical and family history, school records, and other reports.
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 doctor will ask you or your child about the signs and may also ask other people who spend long periods 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. ADHD medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine and nonstimulants like atomoxetine as well as certain antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders like anxiety or depression. The treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients may benefit from cognitive behavior therapy that teaches skills such as time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.
In addition, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle changes. For example exercising regularly can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is important too. People suffering from ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat, and less fruit and vegetables. Making family and social relationships a top priority can help decrease anxiety and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children a better awareness of their difficulties. A child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating their needs to teachers or other peers. Once a teacher realizes that this is not an issue that is solely because of their inability to communicate, they can offer accommodations.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are geared towards the person's specific age, speak with family and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records can be useful for adults.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. They may also perform tests on blood to test for certain hormones, and other health conditions which can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.