How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is a normal child's issue, but it can also affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life of a person.
Interviewing the person and their family members could be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The doctor may also examine old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as an infant.
Symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time-to-time However, for those who suffers from ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and home life. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas and have a significant impact on everyday functioning for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and ask about family history and medical problems. They can also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are usually based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
In adult patients, doctors may require a discussion with an intimate partner or others who are familiar with the patient. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but to gain more insight about their behavior that cannot be obtained from a questionnaire. They might inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will conduct a physical exam and do tests on the lab to rule out other health issues, like thyroid problems or head injuries that may cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the person's list of medications. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other ailments may be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will take these into consideration when suggesting treatments. It is crucial that adults speak with their primary healthcare provider if they suspect they may have ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in at least two or more environments (like school, home and at work) and significantly interfere with functioning. They also must have begun before age 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will employ various tools to evaluate the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists, standardized behaviour rating scales as well as a thorough medical history. They may also interview family members and friends to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also look at the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there is no underlying cause of their problems such as thyroid issues and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some cases, an evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or request an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders and addiction to drugs. People with these issues often appear differently than those without these problems. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical study to try out new treatments. While this is an excellent method to aid in further research, it is important for participants to know that the purpose behind these studies is to acquire scientific knowledge and do not necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information about clinical trials.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD It is essential to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Make getting a adhd diagnosis 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 professionals. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a great option.
A doctor will interview the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children -- about their symptoms. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and also ask other people in the patient's life for details, such as their spouses and families. Personal insight can reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any documents from the past particularly old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often dependent on the past of an individual. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must have been present from the time of childhood (technically, before the age 12).
Physical examinations are also performed. It checks for other medical problems that could be responsible for symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological exam is typically performed by a specialist to assess motor control and coordination. getting a adhd diagnosis that test intelligence and abilities may also be used. Additionally one could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test memory and attention. This can help an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or not. The expert will choose the best treatment plan and then make an assessment. Treatment plans typically comprise therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help adults and children learn healthy ways to cope and change negative thinking patterns. This therapy is usually performed by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medication. However it is not the only method of treating the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to manage the symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and how to manage it, could be incorporated. They can also include teachers, family members and professionals.
It is important to locate a health care provider or mental health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask others who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health practitioner you trust. You can also do an online search. It is recommended to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The health care provider will inquire with you or your child about the symptoms and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will perform physical examinations and check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of you or your child and also school records and other documents.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your doctor may interview you or your children about the symptoms and have other people who spend lots 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. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Additionally, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle adjustments. For example exercising regularly can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is crucial as well. People suffering from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. In addition making relationships with family and friends prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children an understanding awareness of their difficulties. A child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their requirements to teachers or their peers. When a teacher is aware that this isn't an individual issue or due to laziness they can provide adjustments.
adhd diagnosed doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions that are geared towards the age of the person, talk to teachers and family members 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 expert will also check for any vision or hearing problems with hearing or vision. The doctor may also do tests on the blood to check for specific hormones and other health issues that may cause symptoms of ADHD.