How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a child's issue, but it can also affect adults. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can improve their life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members may be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist might review the school records from the past to determine whether symptoms began in childhood.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school and family life. Everyone struggles with concentration and focusing at times. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect the daily functioning of the person to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis doctors will talk to the patient about their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They can also use rating scales to assess a adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature.
Adults might be asked to talk to their significant other or someone they know well. This is not to question the patient's honesty but to gain insight into their behavior that can't be obtained through an interview. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at old school records to determine whether the symptoms began prior to the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an examination and tests on the lab to rule out any other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the patient's medication list. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. It is crucial that adults speak to their primary health care providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in two or more settings (like school, home and work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and can't be caused by a different disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional or doctor will use a variety of tools during an evaluation, including ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a thorough history. They may interview friends and family members to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They may also inquire if there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure there is no underlying reason for their symptoms, such as thyroid disorders, head injuries or medication.
In certain instances the examiner may decide to conduct cognitive testing or request the person take an imaging test in order to determine the cause of their symptoms like learning disabilities. People suffering from these disorders typically present differently than those who don't have them. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to test new treatments. This is a great opportunity to further research. However, participants should be aware that the primary purpose of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge, not the guarantee of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect you may have ADHD Find a doctor who is qualified to identify the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to see whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also seek referrals from your family doctor or other health care providers. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -- or their parents, in children's cases -- about the symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and also ask other people in a person's life for information like their spouses and their families. Personal insight often uncovers more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to review any records that the person may have, particularly old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually dependent on the past of an individual. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must be present from childhood (technically, before the age 12).
Physical examinations are also performed. It checks for other medical issues that could be the cause of the symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The expert will often conduct a neurological examination, which checks for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, designed to assess the ability and intelligence of a person, could be used as well. A person could be required to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. adhd diagnoses could assist an expert determine whether a person is hyperactive or inattentional. The specialist will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans usually consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help adults and children learn healthy ways to cope and change destructive thought patterns. This therapy is usually performed by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medications, however it's not the only method to treat the condition. Adults, teens and children are also able to benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to manage them. They can include psychoeducation, which is education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can include teachers, family members and professionals.
It is essential to find a health care provider or mental health professional who has previous experience treating ADHD. You can ask for suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or perform an online search. It is essential to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
To determine if your child has ADHD, the health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and issues caused by them. They will conduct a physical examination and check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you, as well as school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily geared towards diagnosing children and adolescents, has a harder time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about their symptoms and have others who spend a lot of time with them to 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 such as the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and atomoxe and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD have comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities such as time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
In addition, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms through lifestyle modifications. For example, a regular exercise routine can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and less fruits and vegetables than others. Also, making social and family relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives.
Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children an understanding comprehension of their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to peers and teachers however, once a teacher is aware that it's not due to personal issues or to inattention, accommodations can be implemented.
A professional doing an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the person's age, interview family members and teachers, review medical records, and check for comorbid conditions. If adhd diagnoses started before adulthood school records can be useful for adults.
A physical exam is usually included, and the doctor will likely check for hearing and vision problems. He or she might also conduct tests on blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, as well as other health conditions which can cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.