How to Diagnose and Treat getting a adhd diagnosis think ADHD is a normal child's condition but it can affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life of a person.
An assessment for ADHD could involve a conversation with the person and family members. The specialist could look through old school records to determine if symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying well-organized from time to time However, for those who has ADHD this can cause problems with work, school and even home life. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas, and that they significantly affect the way they function in their daily lives to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, doctors will speak with the patient about their symptoms and inquire about their family medical history and any medical issues. They may also employ rating systems to gauge symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These questionnaires ask about symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
Adults may be asked to speak with their significant other or someone they know well. This is not to question the patient's honesty but to gain a better understanding of their behavior that cannot be obtained through an interview. They may also ask about childhood behavior and use the old school records to determine whether the symptoms began prior to the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will perform physical examinations and tests on the lab to rule out any other health issues, like head injuries or thyroid issues that may cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the patient's list of medications. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other conditions can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will consider these when suggesting treatments. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to consult their primary care physicians if they think they might be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in two or more settings (like home, school and work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12 and must not be caused by another disorder like depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional uses various tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour as well as a thorough medical history. They may also interview 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 conditions or physical ailments.
Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also look at the medical history of the patient and family history to determine if there isn't any underlying cause for their issues such as thyroid issues, head injuries or medication.
In some instances, an evaluator may want to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders and addiction to drugs. These people often present differently from those with no issues. For example, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while girls show inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD would like to participate in an experiment in order to test new treatments. This is a great chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the main purpose of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily an assurance of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they have ADHD It is essential to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other health professionals for recommendations. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a great option.
A doctor will ask the patient - or parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and also ask others in the person's life for information including spouses and families. Personal insight can provide more information than what can be learned from questionnaires.
Experts will also examine any old school records, and especially old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often based on the history of an individual. To be diagnosed, symptoms must have existed since the age of a child (technically before age 12).
A physical exam is typically performed. It is a way to identify any other medical problems that could be causing the symptoms, for example, seizure disorders or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is usually conducted by the expert to assess the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests to measure the ability to think and be smart could be used. A person may be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This can help an expert determine whether someone is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will decide on the best treatment plan and then make an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy is usually performed by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medications, however it's not the only way to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them to cope and cope with their ADHD symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can also involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It's crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health professional who has experience in treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online search. It's best to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD to determine the cause, a health professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and problems caused by the condition. They will conduct a physical examination and check for any other health issues that may trigger similar symptoms. They will review your or your child's medical and family history, school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily geared towards diagnosing children and adolescents, has a harder to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child regarding their symptoms, and may ask others who spend long periods of time with them to complete 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
In addition, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Also, making family and social relationships prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children an understanding awareness of their difficulties. For instance, a child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her needs to peers and teachers, but once a teacher understands that it's not due to personal issues or to laziness, accommodations can be provided.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions geared to the individual's age, interview family and teachers, review medical records, and check for any comorbidities. For adults, records from school could be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.
The doctor will also look for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. They might also conduct tests on blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, as well as other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.