How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, however it can affect adults as well. Diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can lead a happier life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members can be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist might review old school records to determine whether symptoms began in the early years of childhood.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time to time however, for those who has ADHD, these problems interfere with school, work and home life. 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 be present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about family medical history and any medical issues. They can also use rating systems to assess symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions regarding symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
In adults, doctors may require a discussion with someone else in the family or who know the patient. This is not to question the patient's honesty, but rather to gain a better understanding of their behavior that cannot be gained from an interview. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior and consult 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 lab tests to rule out other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries that may cause similar symptoms. adhd in adults undiagnosed will also review the medication list of a patient. 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 to their primary health care providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD, the symptoms must be evident in at least two settings (such as at home, school, and work) and cause impairment to functioning. They also must have begun before age 12, and the impairment cannot be due to another disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will employ a variety tools during an evaluation which include ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed history. They can also speak with family members or friends to find out what the symptoms have done to them. They'll ask if the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also look into the patient's medical and familial history to determine if there are root causes behind their condition like thyroid problems or head injuries.
In some cases an evaluator might decide to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, like learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders and substance abuse. People with these issues often appear differently than those who do not have these issues. For example, boys tend to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test new treatments. While this is a great opportunity to contribute to further research, it is crucial for participants to understand that the purpose behind these studies is to increase 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
For a person who suspects they may have ADHD, it's important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Word-of mouth recommendations are also a good alternative.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask other people in the patient's life for details, such as their spouses and their families. Personal experience often reveals more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records, and especially old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person and, to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must have been present from childhood (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is also performed. It is a way to identify any other medical conditions that may be the cause of symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological exam is typically conducted by the expert to check the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, which are designed to measure intelligence and ability, might be utilized too. The test subject may be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This could help an expert determine if someone is hyperactive or not. The expert will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans typically comprise 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 conducted by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medications, however it's not the only option to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults are also able to benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies aid them in coping and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They may involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It is crucial to find an expert in mental health or health professional who has experience in treating ADHD. You can request suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or perform an online search. It is important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
To diagnose ADHD to determine the cause, a health care professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms as well as the 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, as well as school records and other reports.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily geared towards diagnosing children. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about their symptoms and request that 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. The drugs used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD have comorbid disorders, such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches skills such as time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For instance, a regular exercise routine can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than other people. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce stress and make individuals feel more in charge of their lives.
adhd in adults undiagnosed of an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives children and adults a clearer awareness of their difficulties. A child diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble communicating their demands to their teachers or other peers. Once a teacher realizes that this is not an individual issue or because of a lack of time, they can provide accommodations.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the age of the person, talk to teachers and family members as well as review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The specialist will also check for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. The doctor could also conduct an examination of the blood to test for certain hormones, and other health conditions that can cause ADHD-like signs and symptoms.