How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe ADHD is a normal condition that affects children, but it can also affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can improve the quality of life of a person.
A diagnosis for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The specialist could look through the school records from the past to determine whether symptoms began in the early years of childhood.
Signs and 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 family life. To be considered to have the disorder, one must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family history and medical problems. They can also use rating scales to assess a adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are often built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
Adults may be asked to talk to their significant other or someone who knows them well. This isn't meant to challenge the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain more insight into the person's behavior that cannot be gleaned from a questionnaire. They may ask about childhood behaviors and use the old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and run tests in order to rule other conditions like thyroid problems or head injuries that could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments may be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when suggesting treatment options. This is why it's essential for adults to talk to their primary care physicians when they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in more than one setting (like school, home and at work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and must not be caused by a different disorder like depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional will use various tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptom lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour, and a detailed medical history. They can also speak with family members or friends to determine what the symptoms have done to them. They'll ask if the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also examine the person's medical history and family history to make sure there isn't any underlying reason for their symptoms like thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In certain instances, an evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders and addiction to drugs. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those without these problems. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, while girls show inattentive ones.
Some people with ADHD are interested in taking part 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 know that the main purpose of these studies is to gain information from the scientific community and does not necessarily guarantee that they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect you might have ADHD Find a doctor who is certified to identify the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire if ADHD specialists are covered. You could also ask your family physician or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations are an option.
A doctor will ask the patient or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. They may use standard questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, or ask for details from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight can provide more information than what can be learned from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to review any records the person might have, including old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history, and to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to age 12).
A physical exam is also usually done. It is a way to identify any other medical issues that could be the cause of symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, which are designed to assess abilities and intelligence, may be utilized as well. Additionally undiagnosed adhd in adults could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that evaluate attention and memory. This can help an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or not. The expert will decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medication, though it's not the only method to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults can also benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them to cope and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, can be included. They can also include family members, teachers and professionals.
It's important to find a health care provider or mental health professional with expertise in treating ADHD. You can ask other people who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you've met. You can also conduct an online search. It is essential to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
To determine if your child has ADHD, the health professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and issues caused by them. They will conduct a physical exam and check for other health problems that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over your your child's medical and family information, school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) (DSM-V) which is primarily designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your doctor will interview you or your child about their symptoms and may ask 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 like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, like depression or anxiety. The treatment should therefore include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also help patients manage their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. For example, a regular exercise routine can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer fruits and vegetables than others. Lastly making social and family relationships a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children an understanding understanding of their challenges. A child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers or peers. Once a teacher understands that this is not a personal issue or because of a lack of time, they can make accommodations.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions that are targeted to the individual's age, talk to family members and teachers, look over medical records, and check for any comorbidities. For adults, school records might be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. The doctor may also conduct tests on the blood to determine the presence of certain hormones as well as other health conditions that can cause symptoms of ADHD.