How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, but it can affect adults as well. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD an individual can live a better life.
An evaluation for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The specialist may look over old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school as well as home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organised at times. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect the way they function in their daily lives for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for a minimum of six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical issues and family history. They can also use rating scales that measure a adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults might be asked to talk to their significant other or someone who knows them well. undiagnosed adhd in adults isn't to doubt honesty, but to gain a better understanding of the person's behavior that cannot be gleaned from the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will conduct an extensive physical examination and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions out for thyroid issues or head injuries, which could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the patient's list of medications. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other issues. This is why it's important for adults to speak to their primary care physicians when they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
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 must also have started before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will employ a variety tools during an evaluation which include ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They may interview friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask whether there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also examine the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there isn't any underlying cause for their issues, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In some instances an examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders and substance abuse. These people often present differently than those who do not have these issues. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls display inattentional symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a great opportunity to further research. However, participants should be aware that the main goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and is not a guarantee of treatment. For more information about clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect that you may have ADHD, find a professional who is certified to recognize the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to find out if ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek recommendations from family doctors or other health care professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will ask the patient - or parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. They can use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and ask for details from other people in the person's life, including spouses and family members. Personal insight can reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also examine any documents from the past, and especially old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often dependent on the past of the individual. To be considered diagnosed, symptoms must have existed since the time of childhood (technically, before the age 12).
A physical examination is also conducted. It's also examined for any other medical issues which could cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is usually carried out by an expert to test motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that measure intelligence and abilities may also be used. The test subject may be required to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This will help the professional determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive, or an impulsive. The expert will choose a treatment plan and make an assessment. Treatment plans usually consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thought patterns. The therapy can be conducted by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD improve their condition by taking medication, though it's not the only method to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults are also able to benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage the symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and ways to manage it, could be incorporated. They can include teachers, family members and professionals.
It is crucial to locate a mental health professional or health professional who has experience in treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or do an online search. It's best 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 caused by ADHD. They will conduct an examination and check for other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you and also school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily designed to diagnose children and adolescents, has a harder to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child about the signs, and may ask others 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 drugs used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders such as anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills like time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. For instance, a regular exercise routine can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is important; people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce stress and help people feel more in charge of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give children and adults a clearer comprehension of their issues. A child diagnosed with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to their teachers or other peers. Once a teacher understands that this isn't an issue that is solely because of a lack of time, they can make adjustments.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the person's age, interview family members and teachers and review medical records and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could help determine if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
The doctor will also look for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. They may also conduct an analysis of blood to determine the presence of certain hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.