How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can also affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life for a person.
An evaluation for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The specialist could examine the school records of the past to determine if symptoms began as a child.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that can affect school, work and family life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organised from time to time. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas and have a significant impact on the way they function in their daily lives to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for a minimum of six months.
A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical concerns and family history. They can also use rating systems to measure symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are often based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
Adults may be asked to talk to their spouse or someone they know well. This isn't to question the honesty of the patient, but to gain more insight into the behavior of a person that cannot be gleaned from an interview. They may also ask about their childhood behavior, and look at the old school records to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run tests in order to rule other conditions for thyroid issues or head injuries, which can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the person's list of medications. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. It is essential that adults talk to their primary healthcare providers when they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in at least two or more environments (like school, home, and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. They must also have started at the age of 12 and the impairment must not be caused by a different disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will employ a variety tools during the assessment, including ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They can also speak with family members or friends to find out what the symptoms have done to them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions.
Evaluations will consider whether the symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also look at the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there is no root reason for their symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In some cases an evaluator might decide to perform cognitive testing or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, such as learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. People with these disorders often show different symptoms from those with no issues. For example, boys tend to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls show 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 chance to conduct further research. However, participants must be aware that the main goal of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily a guarantee of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they may have ADHD It is essential to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider if ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also an alternative.
A doctor will talk to the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children, about the symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in a person's life for information like their spouses and families. Personal experience often reveals more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records, and especially old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also conducted. It's also a way to check for any other medical issues that may cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid problems. A neurological examination is often conducted by the expert to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that measure intelligence and abilities may be used. A person may be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This could help an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or inattentive. The specialist will then determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. The treatment typically includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy is offered by a primary doctor or a mental health specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medication, though it's not the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of the two can be beneficial for children, teens and adults. These therapies aid them in coping and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, could be included. Suggested Reading may involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It's crucial to find a mental health professional or health care professional who has experience in treating ADHD. You can ask for recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or do an online search. It's important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
The health care provider will ask you or your child about the signs and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will conduct an examination and check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical and family history, school records and other reports.
Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily geared towards diagnosing children. Your health care provider will ask you or your child about their symptoms and may also 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. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD have comorbid disorders like anxiety or depression. The treatment should therefore 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.
Therapists can also help patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For example exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also important; people with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer vegetables and fruits than other people. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce anxiety and make people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid adults and children to recognize their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her demands to peers and teachers However, once a teacher understands that it's not due to inattention, accommodations can be implemented.
A professional doing an ADHD evaluation will ask questions geared toward the individual's age, ask questions of teachers and family members, review medical records, and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age, school records can be useful for adults.
The doctor will also look for any hearing or vision problems. The doctor may also perform a blood test in order to test for certain hormones, as well as other health issues that could cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.