How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, but it can affect adults as well. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can improve a person's life.
An assessment for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The specialist might review old school records to see if symptoms started in childhood.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school and family life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organised from time to time. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas, and they must be able to significantly impact the way they function in their daily lives for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must have also been present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, doctors will speak with the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family medical history and any medical issues. They may also employ rating systems to assess symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature.
In adults, doctors may ask to speak with a significant other or people who are familiar with the patient. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but rather to gain more insight about their behavior that isn't obtained from a questionnaire. They might inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will conduct a physical exam and do tests on the lab to rule out any other health conditions, such as head injuries or thyroid issues which can trigger similar symptoms. The provider will also review a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other ailments may be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatment options. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to consult their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must appear in at least two different settings (such as at home, school, and work) and cause impairment to functioning. They must also have started at the age of 12 and the impairment can't be caused by a different disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A doctor or mental health professional will use a variety of tools during the assessment which include ADHD symptom checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a detailed medical history. They might also talk to family members and friends to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They will ask if the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions.
The evaluators will consider whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also review the person's medical and family history in order to determine if there is any underlying causes of their problem, such as thyroid problems or head injuries.
In some instances an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or alcohol abuse. People suffering from these disorders typically present differently than those who do not suffer from them. For example, boys tend to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls inattentive symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to test new treatments. This is a great opportunity to continue research. However, participants must be aware that the main purpose of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and is not a guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information on clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, find a professional who is trained to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire for confirmation if ADHD specialists will be covered. You could also ask your family physician or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a good alternative.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents in the case of children, about symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, or ask for details from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
A professional will also want to examine any records the person might have, particularly old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).
A physical exam is also usually done. It's also examined for any other medical conditions which could cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological exam is usually conducted by the expert to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, which are designed to test intelligence and ability, might be utilized too. A person may be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This could assist an expert determine if the person is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will then determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans usually comprise therapy and medication. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter negative thinking patterns. This therapy is usually performed by an primary care physician or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medications, however it's not the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of both can be beneficial for adolescents, children as well as adults. These therapies help them cope and live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be incorporated. They can also involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It is essential to locate an expert in mental health or health care provider with experience treating ADHD. You can ask other people with ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare practitioner you trust. adhd adult diagnosis can also do an online search. It is best to locate an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by them. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical history and family history, school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) (DSM-V) which is primarily designed to diagnose children, has a more difficult diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about the symptoms and request that 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. ADHD medications include stimulants such as the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and atomoxe, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, like anxiety or depression. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities such as time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is important; people with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat and consume less fruits and vegetables than others. In addition, making relationships with family and friends a priority can lower stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children a better awareness of their difficulties. For instance, a child with ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her needs to teachers and peers however, when a teacher realizes that it's not due to a lack of motivation, accommodations can be provided.
A professional conducting an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the person's age, interview family members and teachers as well as review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The specialist will also check for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. He or she will also perform a blood test to check for certain hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.