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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is a normal child's condition but it can affect adults. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can lead a happier life.
Interviewing the individual and their family members may be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist could review 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, these problems interfere with school, work and even 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 diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire of the patient about his or her symptoms, and also about any medical issues and family history. They may also use rating scales to measure adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
In adult patients, doctors may request a conversation with an intimate partner or others who are familiar with the patient. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but rather to gain insight into their behavior that isn't obtained through the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult the old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining the cause, the doctor will perform an extensive physical examination and run tests in order to rule other ailments for thyroid issues or head injuries, which can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the medication list of a patient. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments may interact with stimulants, so the doctor will take these into consideration when recommending treatment options. This is why it's important for adults to consult their primary care physicians if they think they might be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in at least two places (such as at home, school and at work) and affect the functioning of the individual. The symptoms must have manifested before the age of 12 and cannot be caused by another disorder like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will use different tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptom lists, standardized behaviour rating scales as well as a thorough medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to find out what the symptoms have done to them. They'll ask if the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also review the person's medical and family history to determine if there are root causes behind their condition for example, thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In certain instances, an evaluator may want to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities, mood disorders personality disorders, and addiction to drugs. People with these issues often appear differently than those without these problems. For instance, boys are more likely to have hyperactive symptoms while girls inattentive symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical trial to test new treatments. While this is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to further research, it's important for participants to understand that the main purpose of these studies is to acquire information from the scientific community and does not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD, it's important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Make sure to check with your health insurance provider to find out if ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek referrals from family doctors or other health care providers. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a good option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -- or their parents, in children's cases -- about symptoms. They can use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and request information from other people in the patient's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight can reveal more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any documents from the past and reports, particularly those from the past. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present from childhood (technically prior to age 12).
Physical examinations are also conducted. It is also checked for other medical conditions that may cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. The expert will often conduct a neurological exam which tests for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that measure intelligence and abilities may also be used. The test subject may be required to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This could help the expert determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive, or hyperactive or impulsive. The specialist will determine the treatment plan and provide a diagnosis. The treatment typically includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy ways to cope and change negative thinking 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 suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication, but it's not the only option to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination can be beneficial for teenagers, children and adults. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to live with them. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and ways to manage it, may be incorporated. They can involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
click the next website is essential to find a mental health professional or health care provider 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 conduct an online search. It's important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
The health care provider will inquire with you or your child about symptoms and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will perform a physical examination and check for any other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical history and family history, school records and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be a bit more difficult due to the fact that the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your doctor will ask you or your child about their symptoms, and may 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 atomox as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment which teaches techniques such as time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
In addition, therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by making lifestyle modifications. For example exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthier diet is important as well. People who suffer from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. Making family and social relationships a priority can reduce anxiety and make people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can help children and adults better understand their challenges. A child diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers or peers. When a teacher is aware that this is not an issue that is solely due to laziness they can make accommodations.
A professional doing an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the person's age, interview teachers and family members and review medical records and look for comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms began before the age of adulthood, school records can be useful for adults.
A physical exam is typically included, and the specialist will likely check for hearing and vision problems. The doctor might also conduct tests on blood to test for certain hormones, and other health conditions which can cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.
