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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, but it can also affect adults. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD an individual can live a better life.
Interviewing the person and their family members could be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist could look over old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as an infant.
Symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time-to-time however, for those who has ADHD this can cause problems 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 the way they function in their daily lives to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about his or her symptoms, as well as about any medical concerns and family history. They can also utilize rating scales that measure a child's or adult's symptoms. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
In adult patients, 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 to gain a better understanding of their behavior that cannot be obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at old school records to determine whether the symptoms began prior to the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will conduct an extensive physical exam and run tests in the lab to rule out other ailments 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, high blood pressure and other conditions can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into consideration when suggesting treatments. This is why it's important for adults to speak to their primary care providers when they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms must appear in at least two places (such as home, school and at work) and interfere with functioning. They also must have begun before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional uses different tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists, standardized behaviour rating scales, and a detailed medical history. They can also speak with family members or friends to determine what the symptoms have done to them. They'll inquire whether the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions.
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 make sure there isn't any underlying cause for their issues such as thyroid issues and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some cases an examiner may decide to perform cognitive testing or request an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. People with these problems often present very differently from those who don't have them. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, while girls display inattentional symptoms.
Some people with ADHD would like to participate in studies to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic chance to conduct further research. However, participants must be aware that the primary goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily an assurance of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they have ADHD, it's important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to see if ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek referrals from your family doctor or other health care providers. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a good choice.
A doctor will talk to the patient -- or their parents, in children's cases -- about their symptoms. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and ask others in the person's life for details like their spouses and their families. Personal experience often reveals more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
Experts will also examine any documents from the past particularly old reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is usually done. It will look for any other medical issues that could be causing the symptoms, for example, seizure disorders or thyroid problems. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological exam, that checks for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, designed to assess the ability and intelligence of a person, could be utilized as well. In addition the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or not. The specialist will determine the best treatment plan and then make a diagnosis. The typical treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help children and adults learn healthy coping techniques and change negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary doctor or a mental health specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medication, but it's not the only way to treat the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to manage the symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They could include teachers, family members and professionals.
It is crucial to locate a mental health professional or health care professional who is experienced 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 recommended to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will inquire with you or your child about symptoms and issues caused by ADHD. They will conduct a physical exam and check for other health problems that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of you or your child, as well as school documents and other reports.
resources 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 doctor may interview you or your children about their symptoms and have 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, including depression or anxiety. The treatment should therefore include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For example exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthier diet is important as well. People suffering from ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat, and less fruits and vegetables. Also making family and social relationships a priority can lower stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid children and adults to understand their challenges. For example, a child who has ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers and peers however, once a teacher is aware that it's not due to laziness, accommodations can be implemented.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared to the person's age, speak with family and teachers, read medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records can be useful for adults.
A physical exam is usually included, and the doctor will likely test for hearing and vision issues. They might also conduct an examination of the blood to test for certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
