How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can also affect adults. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can live a better life.
Interviewing the person and their family members can be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The doctor may also examine old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school as well as home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organised from time to time. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas, and that they significantly affect everyday functioning for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family medical history and any medical issues. They may also use rating scales that measure a adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults may be asked to talk to their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not to question the patient's honesty but to gain more insight about their behavior that can't be obtained from a questionnaire. They may also ask about their childhood behavior, and look at old school records to see if the symptoms started prior to the age of 12.
Before determining the cause, the doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and run tests in order to rule other ailments like thyroid problems or head injuries that could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the person's list of medications. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other ailments. This is why it's essential for adults to talk to their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD symptoms must manifest in at least two different settings (such as at home, school and at work) and affect the functioning of the individual. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and cannot be caused by a different disorder like anxiety or depression.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will employ a variety of tools during the evaluation, including ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They might also talk to family members or friends to find out how the symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
The evaluators will consider whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also look into the patient's medical and familial background to determine if there are underlying causes of their problem like thyroid problems or head injuries.
In certain instances, an evaluator may want to perform cognitive testing or request an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, such as mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. People who suffer from these issues typically present differently than those who don't have them. For example, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. While this is a great method to aid in further research, it's important for participants to know that the main purpose of these studies is to acquire scientific knowledge and do not necessarily guarantee that they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have ADHD, find a professional who is certified to diagnose the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider for confirmation if ADHD specialists are covered. You could also ask your family physician or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a good option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -or their parents, in children's cases -- about their symptoms. They may use standard questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and ask for information from other people in the patient's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insight can provide more information than what can be learned from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any old school records particularly old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person, and to be able to identify the condition, the symptoms must have been present from childhood (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is usually done. It is also checked for any other medical conditions that could be causing symptoms, such seizures or thyroid issues. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological examination, which tests for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests to measure the level of intelligence and ability can also be used. In addition the person could be asked to complete simple computer tasks that evaluate attention and memory. This could help the expert determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive or hyperactive or impulsive. The expert will choose a treatment plan and make an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans usually comprise therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental healthcare 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. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of the two can be beneficial for teenagers, children as well as adults. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to live with them. They may include psychoeducation, which is education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It is essential to locate an expert in mental health or health care provider who has experience in treating ADHD. You can ask other people with ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you've met. You can also do an online search. It is essential 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 and problems caused by the condition. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of you or your child and also school records and other reports.
The process 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 health care provider will interview you or your child regarding their symptoms and may request others 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. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. adhd adult diagnosis help by increasing levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. 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 also assist patients in managing their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than other people. Lastly making family and social relationships a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can help children and adults better recognize their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her demands to peers and teachers however, when a teacher realizes that it's not due to personal issues or to inattention, accommodations can be implemented.
A professional doing an ADHD evaluation will ask questions geared toward the individual's age, ask questions of teachers and relatives, review medical records, and look for comorbidities. For adults, records from schools could help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. He or she will also do an analysis of blood to check for certain hormones as well as other health issues that could cause ADHD-like symptoms.