How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, however it can also affect adults. Diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can improve their life.
Interviewing the person and their family members can be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist could review old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started as an infant.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying 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 able to identify the disorder, one must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly affect daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They can also use rating scales to measure adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These questionnaires ask regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
Adults may be asked to speak with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This isn't to question honesty, but to gain insight into the person's behavior that cannot be obtained from an interview. You can also inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at old school records to determine whether the signs started before age 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct an extensive physical exam and run lab tests to rule other conditions out, such as thyroid problems or head injuries that could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the patient's medication list. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments may interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into consideration when suggesting treatments. This is why it's essential for adults to speak to their primary healthcare providers when they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must be evident in at least two settings (such as home, school and at work) and cause impairment to functioning. They also must have begun at the age of 12 and the impairment cannot be caused by another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will employ a variety tools during an evaluation, including ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed medical history. They might also talk to family members and friends to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask if there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions that have similar symptoms.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are severe or mild. getting diagnosed with adhd will also examine the person's medical history as well as family history to determine if there is no root cause for their issues, such as thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some instances the examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request that the person take an imaging test in order to determine the cause of their symptoms, such as learning disabilities. People who suffer from these issues typically present differently than those who don't have them. For instance, boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a great opportunity to further research. However, participants should be aware that the primary objective of these studies is scientific knowledge and is not the guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information on clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, find a professional who is certified to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to see if ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek recommendations from family doctors or other health professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents in children's cases -- about symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and ask for information from other people in the patient's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight can reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records and reports, particularly those from the past. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person and, in order to be able to identify the condition, the symptoms must be present from the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).
Physical examinations are also conducted. It checks for other medical issues that could be the cause of the symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam which tests for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to assess abilities and intelligence, may be utilized as well. Additionally, a person might be asked to complete simple computer tasks that test memory and attention. This will help the professional determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive or an impulsive. The expert will then decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help children and adults learn healthy ways to cope and change destructive thought patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental healthcare professional who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication, though it's not the only way to treat the condition. Adults, teenagers and children can also benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies help them cope and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and ways to manage it, could be incorporated. They can also involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It is essential to find a medical professional or mental health professional who has expertise in treating ADHD. You can ask other people who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you've met. You can also do an online search. It's best to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD to determine the cause, a health professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms and problems caused by them. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over 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, has a more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will ask you or your child regarding their symptoms and may also request other people 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. ADHD medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine as well as certain antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD have comorbid disorders like depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients in managing their symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments. For example, a regular exercise routine can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthier diet is important too. People suffering from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar, and less fruits and vegetables. Lastly making family and social relationships a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children an understanding awareness of their difficulties. A child diagnosed with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their needs to teachers or peers. Once a teacher realizes that this is not an individual issue or because of a lack of time, they can provide adjustments.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions that are targeted to the individual's age, talk to family members and teachers, read medical records, and look for any comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms began before the age of adulthood school records can be helpful for adults.
A physical exam is often included, and the specialist will likely test for hearing and vision issues. He or she might also conduct an examination of the blood to test for certain hormones, as well as other health conditions which can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.