How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, but it can also affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve a person's life.
Interviewing the person and their family members could be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist may review old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started as an infant.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that impacts school, work as well as home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized at times. To be diagnosed with the disorder, one must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must have been present for a minimum of six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about his or her symptoms, as well as regarding any medical issues or family history. They can also use rating systems to assess symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsive nature.
In adult patients, doctors may require a discussion with a significant other or people who know the patient well. This isn't to question honesty, but to gain a better understanding of a person's behavior that can't be gleaned from an interview. They could inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult old school records to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before determining the cause, the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and run lab tests to rule other ailments, such as thyroid problems or head injuries, which could cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other ailments can interact with stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when recommending treatments. This is why it's important for adults to consult their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD, the symptoms must be evident in at least two settings (such as at home, school, and work) and interfere with functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and cannot be caused by another disorder like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will employ different tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists and standardized scales for assessing behaviour and a thorough medical history. They may also interview friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire if there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure there is no root cause for their issues, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In certain instances, the evaluator might want to conduct cognitive testing or request the person take an imaging test to rule out other causes of their symptoms like learning disabilities. These people often present differently than those without these problems. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls display inattentional symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test new treatments. This is a great opportunity to continue research. However, participants must be aware that the main purpose 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 that you might have ADHD, find a professional who is qualified to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Word-of mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children, about symptoms. They can use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and request details from other people in the person's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insights will reveal more than can be learned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to look over any documents that the individual may have, particularly old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically before age 12).
Physical examinations are also carried out. It's also a way to check for other medical conditions that may cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid problems. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological exam which tests for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that test the level of intelligence and ability can also be used. In addition, a person might be asked to perform simple computer tasks that evaluate attention and memory. This can help an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. The treatment typically includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy can be provided by a primary physician or a mental healthcare professional who is a specialist in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medications, however it's not the only way to treat the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to live with the symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and how to manage it, can be included. They can involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It is important to find a health care provider or mental health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask for suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online search. It is important to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
To diagnose ADHD or other disorders, your health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by the condition. They will conduct 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, as well as school records and other reports.
Finding out if you have ADHD in adults can be a bit more difficult due to the fact that the Symptom 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 other people who spend lots of time with them 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as 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, like anxiety or depression. Because of this, treatment should include 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.
Additionally, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms by making lifestyle adjustments. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Making click through the next internet site and family relationships priority can help reduce stress and make individuals feel more in charge of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give children and adults a clearer comprehension of their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her needs to peers and teachers, but when a teacher realizes that it's not personal or due to inattention, accommodations can be made.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are targeted towards the person's specific age, talk to family members and teachers, review medical records, and check for any comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms began before the age of adulthood school records can be helpful for adults.
A physical exam is typically included, and the doctor will likely test for hearing and vision issues. He or she will also perform an analysis of blood to check for specific hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.