How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a child's condition but it can affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve the quality of life for a person.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members could be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist could look through old school records to determine if symptoms started in childhood.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time to time, but for someone who has ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and even home 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 diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have also been 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 can also utilize rating scales to assess a adult's or a child's symptoms. These types of questionnaires are typically constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
In adults, doctors may ask to speak with a significant other or people who know the patient. This is not to question the patient's honesty, but rather to gain insight into their behavior that can't be obtained through the answers to a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about childhood behavior and use the old school records to determine whether the signs started prior to the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will perform an examination and tests on the lab to rule out other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the patient's list of medications. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other ailments can interact with stimulants, so the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatments. It is crucial that adults speak with their primary healthcare provider when they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in at least two or more environments (like school, home and work) and significantly interfere with functioning. They should also have been diagnosed at the age of 12 and the impairment can't be caused by another disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will use different tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour and a thorough medical history. They might also talk to friends and family members to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They will ask whether the symptoms are similar to those of other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there is no underlying reason for their symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In some instances the evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or request the person undergo an imaging test in order to rule out other causes for their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People with these issues often appear differently from those with no issues. For example, boys tend to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the primary objective of these studies is scientific knowledge and is not an assurance of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect you have ADHD seek out a specialist who is trained to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to find out whether ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek recommendations from family doctors or other health care professionals. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a good choice.
A doctor will speak with the patient -or their parents, in the case of children, about their symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and ask others in the person's life for information, such as their spouses and families. Personal insights will reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records particularly old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often determined by the past of a person. To be considered diagnosed, symptoms must have existed from the time of childhood (technically before age 12).
Physical examinations are also conducted. It will look for any other medical issues that could be the cause of the symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological examination, which checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may also be used. A person may be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This could assist an expert determine whether someone is hyperactive or inattentive. The specialist will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans typically comprise therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by an primary care physician or a mental health professional who has a specialization 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. Adults, teenagers and children can also benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to live with these symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, can be incorporated. how to get diagnosed with adhd as an adult may involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It's crucial to find an expert in mental health or health care professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask your friends who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health practitioner you trust. You can also conduct an internet search. It is recommended to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will ask you or your child about symptoms and issues caused by ADHD. They will conduct physical examinations and check for any other health issues that may trigger similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical history and family information, school records and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be trickier because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child about their symptoms, and may request 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 and lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders such as depression or anxiety. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities like 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 improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential as well. People with ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar, and less fruits and vegetables. Lastly making relationships with family and friends prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid adults and children to comprehend their difficulties. A child diagnosed with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their friends. When a teacher is aware that this isn't a personal issue or because of their inability to communicate, they can make accommodations.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions that are geared towards the individual's age, ask questions of teachers and family members, review medical records, and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
A physical exam is usually included, and the doctor will likely look for hearing and vision issues. They may also perform an analysis of blood to check for certain hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms of ADHD.