How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, however it can also affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life of a person.
Interviewing the person and their family members can be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist may look over the school records from the past to determine whether symptoms began in childhood.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school and family life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organized at times. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a person must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly hinder daily functioning. 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 inquire about family medical history and any medical issues. They may also employ rating systems to measure symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are usually built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature.
Adults might be asked to speak with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but rather to gain insight into their behavior that isn't obtained from an interview. They may also ask about childhood behavior and use old school records to see if the symptoms started before age 12.
Before determining the cause, the doctor will perform an extensive physical examination and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions for thyroid issues or head injuries that could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other conditions can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when recommending treatment options. It is essential that adults talk with their primary healthcare provider when they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in two or more settings (like school, home, and at work) and have a significant impact on functioning. They must also have started before age 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
adhd diagnosis in adults will use various tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptom lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour, and a detailed medical history. They may also interview family members and friends to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire whether there are any other physical or mental conditions that exhibit similar symptoms.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the person's medical and family history in order to determine if there are any underlying causes of their problem like thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In some instances, an evaluator may want to perform cognitive testing or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities personality disorders, and substance abuse. People who suffer from these issues typically present differently than those who don't have them. For instance, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while girls inattentive symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to test new treatments. While this is an excellent method to aid in further research, it is crucial for participants to know that the primary purpose of these studies is to gain information from the scientific community and does not necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD It is essential to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Make sure to check with your health insurance provider to see if ADHD specialists are covered, and seek out recommendations from family doctors or other health care professionals. 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 the symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in a person's life for details, such as their spouses and their families. Personal insight can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also review any old school records particularly old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is also performed. It checks for other medical problems that could be responsible for symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid problems. The expert will often conduct a neurological exam, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests to measure the ability to think and be smart could be utilized. The test subject may also be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This can help an expert determine if the person is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will then determine the diagnosis and suggest treatment. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy coping techniques and change destructive thought patterns. This therapy can be provided by a primary physician or a mental health professional who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medication, but it's not the only option to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination can be beneficial for adolescents, children as well as adults. These therapies aid them in coping and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can also include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It's important to find a health care provider or mental health professional who has previous experience treating ADHD. You can ask others who suffer from ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare practitioner you trust. You can also conduct an online search. It is essential to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
To determine if your child has ADHD or other disorders, your health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms and problems caused by the condition. They will do an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of you or your child and also school records and other reports.
The process of 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 their symptoms and request that others who spend a lot of time with them to fill out 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. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, including anxiety or depression. The treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills such as time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients in managing their symptoms by making lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is crucial too. People suffering from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. 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 gives adults and children an understanding understanding of their challenges. A child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers or friends. Once a teacher realizes that this isn't an individual issue or because of their inability to communicate, they can offer accommodations.
A professional conducting an ADHD evaluation will ask questions geared toward the age of the person, talk to teachers and relatives and review medical records and look for comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood school records can be helpful for adults.
The specialist will also check for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. They may also do tests on the blood to look for certain hormones as well as other health issues that could cause symptoms of ADHD.