How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, but it can affect adults as well. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve the quality of life of a person.
A diagnosis for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The doctor may also review old school records to determine if symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that can affect school, work as well as home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and focusing from time to time. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas, and have a significant impact on the way they function in their daily lives for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient about their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They can also utilize rating scales to assess a adult's or child's symptoms. These types of questionnaires are typically based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These questionnaires ask regarding symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Adults might be asked to speak with their spouse or someone they know well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but to gain a better understanding of their behavior that cannot be obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behaviors and use old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run tests in order to rule other conditions like thyroid problems or head injuries, which could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the person's list of medications. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other ailments. This is why it's essential for adults to talk to their primary healthcare providers when they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in two or more settings (like school, home and work) and have a significant impact on functioning. The symptoms must have manifested before the age of 12 and can't be caused by another disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional uses various tools to evaluate the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour and a thorough medical history. They may interview family members and friends to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire whether the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other psychiatric disorders or physical ailments.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure there is no root reason for their symptoms, such as thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some instances the examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request that the person take an imaging test in order to rule out other causes of their symptoms like learning disabilities. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those who do not have these issues. For instance, boys are more likely to have hyperactive symptoms while girls show inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. While this is a great opportunity to contribute to further research, it is crucial for participants to realize that the primary purpose of these studies is to acquire scientific knowledge and do not necessarily ensure that they will receive 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 doctor who is trained to identify the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider for confirmation if ADHD specialists will be covered. You could also ask your family physician or other health professionals for referrals. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will talk to the patient -or their parents, in the case of children, about symptoms. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in the patient's life for information like their spouses and families. Personal insight can reveal more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records and reports, particularly those from the past. The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also usually done. It's also examined for other medical conditions which could be causing symptoms, such seizures or thyroid problems. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological exam, which checks for coordination and motor control. getting a adhd diagnosis , designed to assess abilities and intelligence, may be utilized too. In addition the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test attention and memory. This could assist an expert determine whether a person is hyperactive or inattentional. The specialist will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and help change negative thinking 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 are helped by medications, however it's not the only option to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination of the two can be beneficial for children, teens, and adults. These therapies aid them in coping and cope with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and ways to manage it, could be included. They can also include family members, teachers and professionals.
It's crucial to locate a mental health professional or health care provider with experience treating ADHD. You can ask for suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or conduct an online search. It is essential 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 as well as the problems caused by them. They will conduct physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of your child or you, as well as school records and other documents.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is designed to diagnose children, has a more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about their symptoms and have others who spend a lot of time with them 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD have comorbid disorders like depression or anxiety. The treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.
In addition, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms through lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise can help decrease 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. In addition, making family and social relationships a priority can lower stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children a better comprehension of their issues. For instance, a child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her needs to teachers and peers however, when a teacher realizes that it's not due to a lack of motivation accommodations can be provided.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions specific to the age of the person, talk to family members and teachers, review medical records, and check for comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms began before the age of adulthood school records can be useful for adults.
The specialist will also check for any hearing or vision issues with hearing or vision. They may also perform an analysis of blood to determine the presence of certain hormones and other health issues that may cause ADHD-like symptoms.