How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, however it can affect adults as well. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve a person's life.
Interviewing the individual and their family members may be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The doctor may also review the school records of the past to determine if the symptoms started as an infant.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying well-organized from time to time however, for those who suffers from ADHD, these problems interfere with work, school and even home life. To be able to identify the disorder, a person must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect daily functioning. The symptoms must have also been present for a minimum of six months.
To establish a diagnosis a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family history and medical problems. They may also employ rating systems to measure symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are often built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These questionnaires ask about the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and the tendency to be impulsive.
For adults, doctors might request a conversation with someone else in the family or who are familiar with the patient. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but to gain insight into their behavior that can't be obtained from a questionnaire. They might inquire about childhood behaviors and use old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions out for thyroid issues or head injuries that could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the patient's medications. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other issues. It is crucial that adults speak to their primary healthcare providers if they suspect they may have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must appear in at least two settings (such as home, school and at work) and affect the functioning of the individual. The symptoms must have manifested before the age of 12 and cannot be caused by a different disorder like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will use a variety of tools during the assessment, including ADHD symptom checklists as well as 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 also ask whether there are other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions that exhibit similar symptoms.
Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also review the patient's medical and family background to determine if there are any underlying causes of their problem like thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In certain instances, the evaluator might want to conduct cognitive testing or request that the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities. People who suffer from these issues often present very differently from those who do not have them. For instance, boys are more likely to show hyperactive symptoms and girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic opportunity to continue research. However, participants must be aware that the main goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily an assurance of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD It is essential to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists will be covered. adhd in adults undiagnosed can also ask family doctors or other health professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good alternative.
A doctor will ask the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and also ask others in the person's life for information including spouses and their families. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to look over any documents the person might have, particularly old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the history of a person and, to be able to identify the condition, the symptoms must have been present from childhood (technically prior to age 12).
A physical examination is also conducted. It's also a way to check for other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, such seizures or thyroid problems. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological exam that checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test the ability to think and be smart could also be used. Additionally the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine if the person is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will decide on the best treatment plan and then make a diagnosis. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping strategies and help 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 improve by taking medication. However it is not the only treatment for the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination can be beneficial to teenagers, children as well as adults. These therapies help them cope and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and ways to manage it, can be incorporated. They may involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It is essential to locate a health care provider or mental health professional who has experience treating ADHD. You can ask others 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 best to locate a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
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 the condition. They will conduct a physical exam and check for other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. adhd diagnosis in adults uk will go over the medical and family history of you or your child, as well as school documents and other reports.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be trickier because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your health care provider will interview you or your child about the signs and may request others who spend many hours 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. ADHD medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment that teaches skills such as time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.
Additionally, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms by making lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also crucial for people with ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat, and eat fewer vegetables and fruits than other people. In addition making family and social relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid children and adults to understand their challenges. For instance, a child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her demands to peers and teachers, but when a teacher realizes that it's not due to inattention, accommodations can be provided.
A professional who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the age of the person, talk to family members and teachers, review medical records, and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records could be helpful for adults.
A physical exam is often included, and the specialist will likely check for hearing and vision issues. They might also conduct an examination of the blood to test for certain hormones, and other health conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.