How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is just a condition that affects children, but it can also affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life for a person.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members can be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist could review the school records of the past to determine if symptoms began as an infant.
Symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time-to-time However, for those who suffers from ADHD, these problems interfere with school, work and family life. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas, and they must be able to significantly impact the way they function in their daily lives to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must have also been present for a minimum of six months.
To determine a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They can also utilize rating scales that measure a adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are often constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults might be asked to speak with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not to question the patient's honesty, but to gain more insight about their behavior that isn't gained from the answers to a questionnaire. You can also inquire 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 conduct physical examinations and tests on the lab to rule out any other health issues, like head injuries or thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the patient's medications. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other conditions can interact with stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when recommending treatments. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to speak to their primary care providers if they think they might be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must manifest in at least two settings (such as school, home, and work) and interfere with functioning. They also must have begun before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by another disorder, like depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional will use various tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptom lists, standardized behaviour rating scales and a thorough medical history. They may also interview friends and family members to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They will ask whether the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions.
Evaluators will take into account whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also look into the person's medical and family background to determine if there are underlying causes of their problem for example, thyroid issues or head injuries.
In certain instances the evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or ask the person to take an imaging test in order to rule out other causes for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities. People suffering from these disorders often present very differently from those who do not suffer from them. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, while girls show inattentive ones.
A few people suffering from ADHD might be interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. While this is an excellent method to aid in further research, it's important for participants to realize that the purpose behind these studies is to acquire knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD it is important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a good option.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents in the case of children -- about their symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and request details from other people in the patient's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight will reveal more than can be learned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to review any records that the individual may have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).
Physical examinations are also conducted. It checks for other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological examination, which checks for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, designed to assess abilities and intelligence, may be utilized too. In addition the person could be asked to complete simple computer tasks that test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine whether a person is hyperactive or not. The expert will decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. Treatment plans typically comprise therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help children and adults learn healthy coping strategies and alter negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve their condition by taking medication, but it's not the only method to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination of the two can be beneficial for adolescents, children as well as adults. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to live with the symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be included. They can also involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It's crucial to find an expert in mental health or health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can ask for suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or perform an online search. It's best to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To determine if your child has ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms and problems caused by them. They will conduct physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms. They will review your 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 time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about the symptoms and have others who spend a lot 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. The drugs used to treat ADHD include stimulants, like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD have comorbid disorders, such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Additionally, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than other people. Also making family and social relationships prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children an understanding comprehension of their issues. A child diagnosed with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their friends. Once a teacher understands that this is not a personal issue or because of a lack of time, they can offer adjustments.
how to diagnosis adhd who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions specific to the individual's age, ask questions of teachers and relatives as well as review medical records and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records can be useful for adults.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. They could also conduct an examination of the blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.