How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition that affects children however, it can affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can improve the quality of life for a person.
Interviewing the person and their family members may be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist might review old school records to see whether the symptoms started in childhood.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time-to-time however, for those who suffers from ADHD this can cause problems with work, school and home life. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas and they must be able to significantly impact the daily functioning of the person to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have also been present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and ask about their family history and medical conditions. They can also use rating scales that measure a adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are usually based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and the tendency to be impulsive.
In adult patients, doctors may require a discussion with an intimate partner or others who know the patient well. This isn't meant to challenge the honesty of the patient, but to gain insight into the person's behavior that cannot be gleaned from an interview. They may ask about childhood behavior and refer to old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct a physical exam and do lab tests to rule out other health conditions, such as head injuries or thyroid issues which can trigger similar symptoms. The provider will also check the patient's medication list. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other ailments may interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into consideration when recommending treatments. This is why it's important for adults to talk to their primary healthcare providers if they think they might have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must manifest in at least two different settings (such as at home, school and at work) and interfere with functioning. They should also have been diagnosed at the age of 12 and the impairment must not be due to another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional uses various tools to evaluate the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists and standardized scales for assessing behaviour as well as a thorough medical history. They can also speak with family members or friends to determine what the symptoms have done to them. They will ask if the symptoms are similar to other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there is no underlying reason for their symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In certain instances an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or request an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or alcohol abuse. People suffering from these disorders tend to show different symptoms than those who do not have them. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls show inattentive ones.
Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test new treatments. While this is a fantastic way to help further research, it's important for participants to realize that the primary purpose of these studies is to increase knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect you might have ADHD, find a professional who is qualified to recognize the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents, in children's cases -- about their symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and request information from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records and reports, particularly those from the past. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).
Physical examinations are also usually done. It checks for other medical conditions that may be the cause of symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological examination is often carried out by an expert to check motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to measure abilities and intelligence, may be used as well. Additionally the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This could help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive, or an impulsive. The specialist will determine a treatment plan and make an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter destructive thought patterns. The therapy can be conducted by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who has a specialization 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. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies help them cope and cope with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and ways to manage it, may be incorporated. They can involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It is important to find a medical professional or mental health professional who has experience treating ADHD. You can ask others who suffer from ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you know. You can also conduct an internet search. It's important to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
To determine if your child has ADHD, the health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and problems caused by the condition. They will conduct physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you and also school documents and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is primarily designed to diagnose children is more difficult diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about their symptoms and ask other people who spend lots of time with them to fill out questionnaires and checklists. adhd diagnosed 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, like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients may benefit from cognitive behavior therapy that teaches skills such as managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.
In addition, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle modifications. For instance an exercise routine that is regularly practiced can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Lastly, making family and social relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children a better comprehension of their issues. A child diagnosed with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their peers. Once a teacher understands that this is not an individual issue or because of a lack of time, they can provide accommodations.
A professional who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the age of the person, talk to teachers and family members and review medical records and look for comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records can be helpful for adults.
A physical exam is often included, and the doctor will likely test for hearing and vision issues. The doctor may also perform tests on blood to check for certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.