How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a child's condition however, it can affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve the quality of life for a person.
Interviewing the individual and their family members can be part of an evaluation for ADHD. adhd diagnosis in adults may look over old school records to see whether the symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time to time however, for those who has ADHD, these problems interfere with work, school and family life. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas, and they must be able to significantly impact everyday functioning for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for a minimum of six months.
To establish a diagnosis a doctor will interview the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about family medical history and any medical issues. They can also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are often constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature.
In adults, doctors may require a discussion with an intimate partner or others who know the patient well. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty but to gain insight into their behavior that can't be obtained through the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult old school records in order to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform physical examinations and lab tests to rule out any other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The provider will also check the patient's medication list. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments may interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into consideration when suggesting treatment options. It's important that adults talk with their primary healthcare provider when they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in two or more settings (like home, school and at work) and significantly interfere with functioning. They should also have been diagnosed before age 12, and the impairment must not be due to another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional will use various tools to evaluate the patient, such as ADHD symptom lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour, and a detailed medical history. They might also talk to family members or friends to learn how the symptoms affect them. They will also ask whether there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
Evaluators will take into account whether symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also look at the person's medical history as well as family history to determine if there is no underlying cause for their issues such as thyroid issues or head injuries, or medications.
In some instances an evaluator might decide to perform cognitive testing or request an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities personality disorders, and substance abuse. People who suffer from these issues typically present differently than those who do not suffer from them. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, while girls display inattentional symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to test new treatments. This is a fantastic opportunity to further research. However, participants should be aware that the primary goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily the guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they have ADHD, it's important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to find out if ADHD specialists are covered, and seek out referrals from your family doctor or other health care professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are an option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. They can use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and ask for information from other people in the person's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insight can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to examine any records that the person may have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often dependent on the past of the individual. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must be present from the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also usually done. It will look for any other medical issues that could be the cause of the symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders. A neurological examination is often performed by a specialist to check the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that measure intelligence and abilities may be used. Additionally, a person might be asked to perform simple computer tasks that evaluate attention and memory. This could help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive, or impulsive. The expert will choose the treatment plan and provide an appropriate diagnosis. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help children and adults learn healthy coping strategies and alter negative thinking patterns. This therapy can be done by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve by taking medication. However this isn't the only method of treating the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of both can be beneficial to adolescents, children, and adults. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage the symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and ways to manage it, can be incorporated. They may involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It is important to find a medical professional or mental health professional with previous experience treating ADHD. You can ask your friends with ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you've met. You can also conduct an online search. It is best to locate a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The health professional will inquire with you or your child about the symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will perform a physical examination and check for any other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of you or your child along with school documents and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) (DSM-V) which is primarily designed to diagnose children, has a more difficult time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your health care provider might interview you or your children about their symptoms and request that other people who spend lots of time with them 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have comorbid disorders, including anxiety or depression. The treatment should therefore include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment which teaches techniques such as time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also assist patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat and less fruits and vegetables than others. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce stress and help people feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children a better understanding of their challenges. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to peers and teachers, but once a teacher is aware that it's not due to inattention accommodations can be provided.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions that are geared towards the individual's age, ask questions of family members and teachers, review medical records, and check for comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms began before the age of adulthood school records can be useful for adults.
The specialist will also check for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. They may also conduct a blood test to determine the presence of certain hormones as well as other health issues that may cause symptoms of ADHD.