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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, but it can also affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can make a difference in a person's life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members can be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist may look over the school records from the past to determine if symptoms started in childhood.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school and family life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized at times. To be considered to have the disorder, a person must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis doctors will talk to the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family history and medical problems. They can also use rating scales that measure a child's or adult's symptoms. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
Adults may be asked to speak with their significant other or someone who knows them well. This isn't to doubt the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain more insight into the behavior of a person that cannot be gathered from an interview. They could inquire about childhood behaviors and use old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct an extensive physical examination and run lab tests to rule other ailments like thyroid problems or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over a person's medication list. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. This is why it's essential for adults to consult their primary healthcare providers if they think they might have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms must be evident in at least two different settings (such as home, school, and work) and cause impairment to functioning. They also must have begun at the age of 12 and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will employ a variety tools during the assessment that include ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a thorough history. They might also talk to family members and friends to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They will ask if the symptoms are similar to those of other psychiatric disorders or physical ailments.
Evaluators will take into account whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to make sure there is no underlying reason for their symptoms like thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In certain instances an examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities, mood disorders personality disorders, and alcohol abuse. People with these issues often appear differently from those with no issues. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, while girls show inattentive ones.
Many people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic opportunity to continue research. However, participants should be aware that the main objective of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily an assurance of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect that you might have ADHD Find a doctor who is qualified to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire if ADHD specialists are covered. You could also ask your family physician or other health professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also an option.
A doctor will speak with 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 information, such as their spouses and their families. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to look over any documents the person might have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often determined by the past of the individual. To be considered adhd diagnostic must have been present since the time of childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is also performed. It will look for any other medical problems that could be causing the symptoms, for example, thyroid problems or seizure disorders. A neurological examination is often performed by a specialist to assess motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may also be used. A person could be required to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or not. The expert will decide on the treatment plan and provide an appropriate diagnosis. Treatment plans usually include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may aid children and adults in learning healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thought 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 get better by taking medication. However it is not the only method of treating the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination can be beneficial to adolescents, children as well as adults. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to live with them. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and ways to manage it, can be incorporated. They can involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It's crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask other people with ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you've met. You can also conduct an online search. It's best to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The health care provider will ask you or your child about the symptoms and issues caused by ADHD. They will conduct a physical examination and check for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of you or your child along with school records and other documents.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child about the signs and may ask other people who spend a lot of time 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. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For instance, a regular exercise routine can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthy diet is crucial for people with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Lastly making family and social relationships a priority can lower stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid children and adults to comprehend their difficulties. A child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their peers. Once a teacher realizes that this isn't a personal issue or because of their inability to communicate, they can offer accommodations.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions specific to the person's age, interview teachers and relatives as well as review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, school records might be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
A physical exam is typically included, and the expert will likely test for vision and hearing problems. He or she will also perform tests on the blood to determine the presence of specific hormones and other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.