How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe ADHD is just a child's condition however, it can affect adults. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can live a better life.
A diagnosis for ADHD may involve interviewing the patient and their family members. The specialist may look over old school records to determine whether symptoms began as a child.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that can affect school, work as well as home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organised from time to time. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a person must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and demonstrate that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, doctors will speak with the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They may also employ rating systems to assess symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Adults might be asked to talk to their significant other or someone who knows them well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but rather to gain a better understanding of their behavior that cannot be gained from an interview. They may ask about their childhood behaviors and consult old school records in order to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will conduct physical examinations and lab tests to rule out any other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries that may cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review the medication list of a patient. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other conditions can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatment options. This is why it's essential for adults to consult their primary care providers when they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in at least two or more environments (like school, home, and at work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12 and must not be caused by a different disorder such as anxiety or depression.
A doctor or mental health professional will employ a variety of tools during an evaluation that include ADHD symptom checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a detailed medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to learn how the symptoms affect them. They'll ask whether the symptoms are similar to other mental health conditions or physical conditions.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also look into the patient's medical and family history to determine if there are any underlying causes for their issue for example, thyroid problems or head injuries.
In certain instances the examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request the person take an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those without these problems. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test new treatments. This is an excellent opportunity to continue research. However, participants must be aware that the primary goal of these studies is scientific knowledge, not the 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 qualified to recognize the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider for confirmation if ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a great option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in a person's life for details including spouses and their families. Personal insights will reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over documents from the past and reports, particularly those from the past. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, in order in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical examination is also performed. It is a way to identify any other medical problems that could be causing symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders. A neurological exam is usually carried out by an expert to test motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may also be used. The test subject may be required to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This can help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive or impulsive. The expert will decide on the best treatment plan and then make an appropriate diagnosis. Typically, the treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thought patterns. adhd diagnosed is offered by a primary physician or a mental health professional who is a specialist in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve their condition by taking medication, though it's not the only option to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of the two can be beneficial to adolescents, children and adults. These therapies assist them to cope and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It is essential to locate a mental health professional or health care provider with experience treating ADHD. You can seek suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or conduct an online search. It is recommended to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will ask you or your child about the signs and issues caused by ADHD. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health conditions that may trigger similar symptoms. They will review your or your child's medical history and family history, school records, and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is primarily designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about their symptoms and have other people who spend lots of time with them to fill out checklists and questionnaires. 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 methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD have co-occurring disorders such as depression or anxiety. Treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
In addition, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is also essential for those with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and less fruits and vegetables than others. In addition, making social and family relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid adults and children to recognize their issues. undiagnosed adhd in adults diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble communicating their demands to their teachers or friends. Once a teacher realizes that this isn't a personal issue or due to laziness they can provide accommodations.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions specific to the individual's age, ask questions of family members and teachers as well as review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records could be useful for adults.
A physical exam is typically included, and the doctor will likely check for hearing and vision problems. They may also do a blood test to look for specific hormones and other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.