How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe ADHD is a condition that affects children, but it can also affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life for a person.
Interviewing the individual and their family members can be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist could review old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started as an infant.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time-to-time however, for those who has ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and family life. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a person must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire of the patient about his or her symptoms, as well as regarding any medical issues or family history. They may also use rating systems to gauge 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 about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
For adults, doctors might request a conversation with someone else in the family or who know the patient. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty but to gain more insight about their behavior that cannot be obtained through the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct an extensive physical exam and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions for thyroid issues or head injuries that could cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other ailments can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when recommending treatment options. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to consult their primary healthcare providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must be evident in at least two settings (such as school, home, and work) and affect the functioning of the individual. They should also have been diagnosed at the age of 12 and the impairment cannot be due to another disorder, like depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional or doctor will use a variety of tools during an evaluation which include ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They may also interview friends and family members to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They will ask whether the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also examine the person's medical history as well as family history to ensure there is no underlying cause of their problems like thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In certain instances an examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or alcohol abuse. People with these issues often appear differently than those who do not have these issues. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test new treatments. While this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to further research, it is crucial for participants to realize that the primary purpose of these studies is to acquire information from the scientific community and does not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD It is essential to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Make sure to check with your health insurance provider to see whether ADHD specialists are covered, and seek out recommendations from family doctors or other health care providers. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents, in children's cases -- about symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and also ask other people in a person's life for details, such as their spouses and families. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A professional will also want to look over any documents that the individual may have, particularly old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by the past of a person. To be diagnosed, symptoms must have existed from childhood (technically, before the age 12).
Physical examinations are also performed. It checks for other medical issues that could be the cause of the symptoms, such as seizure disorders or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is usually conducted by the expert to assess motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may be utilized. Additionally, a person might be asked to complete simple computer tasks that test attention and memory. This could help an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or not. The expert will choose a treatment plan and make an assessment. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy ways to cope and change negative thinking patterns. This therapy is usually performed 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. However it is not the only treatment for 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 with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to live with these symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can also include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It's crucial to find a mental health professional or health professional who has experience in treating ADHD. You can ask your friends with ADHD for suggestions or a mental health practitioner you trust. You can also do an online search. It's best to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD to determine the cause, a health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and issues caused by them. They will perform physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. They will review your or your child's medical and family information, school records and other reports.
adhd diagnosis uk adult (DSM-V), which is designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your doctor will talk to you or your child about their symptoms, and may request other people who spend long periods 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 such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, including anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy which teaches techniques such as managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.
In addition, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is important; people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Making family and social relationships a priority can reduce stress and help people feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children a better understanding of their challenges. For example, a child who has ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her demands to peers and teachers, but once a teacher understands that it's not due to personal issues or to a lack of motivation accommodations can be provided.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared to the person's age, interview family and teachers, read medical files, and check for any comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms began before the age of adulthood school records can be useful for adults.
A physical exam is usually included, and the specialist will likely look for hearing and vision issues. He or she might also conduct an examination of the blood to test for certain hormones, and other health conditions which can cause ADHD-like signs and symptoms.