How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, but it can affect adults too. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life of a person.
Interviewing the person and their family members could be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist might review old school records to see if symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying well-organized from time to time, but for someone who has ADHD, these problems interfere with school, work and family life. To be considered to have the disorder, someone must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and demonstrate that the symptoms significantly hinder the daily functioning. The symptoms must have also been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, as well as about any medical concerns and family history. They can also use rating scales to assess a adult's or child's symptoms. 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.
Adults might be asked to speak with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but rather to gain insight into their behavior that cannot be gained from the answers to a questionnaire. They may ask about childhood behaviors and use old school records in order 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 like thyroid problems or head injuries that could cause similar symptoms. The provider will also check the patient's medication list. Doctors will look at the interactions between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. This is why it's essential for adults to talk to their primary care physicians when they suspect they have 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 affect the functioning of the individual. They should also have been diagnosed before age 12, and the impairment cannot be due to another disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety tools during the assessment that include ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed history. They might also talk to family members or friends to find out how the symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire if there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also review the person's medical and family background to determine if there are any root causes behind their condition for example, thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In certain instances, the evaluator might want to conduct cognitive testing or request the person undergo an imaging test to determine the cause of their symptoms like learning disabilities. People with these issues often appear differently from those with no issues. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, while girls display inattentional symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. This is a great chance to conduct further research. However, participants must be aware that the primary goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and is not a guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have ADHD, find a professional who is qualified to identify the disorder. Ask adhd diagnosis adult whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a good option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. They can use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and ask for information from other people in the patient's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight often uncovers more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over documents from the past particularly old reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present from childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also performed. It will look for any other medical problems that could be responsible for the symptoms, such as seizure disorders or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is typically conducted by the expert to check the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that measure the level of intelligence and ability can be used. A person may be required to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This can help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive or hyperactive or impulsive. The expert will decide on the treatment plan and provide an appropriate diagnosis. The treatment typically includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and help change negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental health specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medication. However it is not the only method of treating the condition. Children, teenagers and adults are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies assist them to cope and cope with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and ways to manage it, could be included. They may involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It's important to locate a health care provider or mental health professional with previous experience treating ADHD. You can ask your friends with ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you know. You can also do an online search. It is important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms and issues caused by the condition. They will perform a physical examination and check for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over your or your child's medical and family history, school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is primarily geared towards diagnosing children is more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child about their symptoms and may ask 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 like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine as well as certain antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD have comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
Therapists can help patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For instance, a regular exercise routine can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat and less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce stress and help 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 understanding of their challenges. A child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers or peers. Once a teacher realizes that this isn't an issue that is solely because of a lack of time, they can make accommodations.
A professional doing an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the individual's age, ask questions of teachers and family members and review medical records and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The specialist will also check for any vision or hearing problems with hearing or vision. He or she will also conduct tests on the blood to determine the presence of specific hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.