How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a normal condition that affects children but it can affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can help improve a person's life.
Interviewing the individual and their family members may be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist might review old school records to determine whether symptoms began in childhood.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that affects work, school as well as home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organised from time to time. To be able to identify the disorder, someone must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas and demonstrate that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must have also been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis doctors will speak with the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about family history and medical conditions. They can also utilize rating scales to assess a adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are often constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults might be asked to talk to their significant other or someone they know well. This isn't to doubt the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain more insight into a person's behavior that can't be gleaned from a questionnaire. They might inquire about childhood behaviors and use old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an examination and tests in the lab to rule out other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The provider will also check the person's list of medications. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other ailments can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when suggesting treatment options. It is crucial that adults speak to their primary healthcare providers 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 at work) and significantly interfere with functioning. They must also have started before age 12, and the impairment can't be caused by a different disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A doctor or mental health professional will use a variety of tools during the evaluation, including ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed history. They can also speak with family members or friends to determine what the symptoms have done to them. They may also inquire whether there are other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions that have similar symptoms.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to make sure there isn't any underlying reason for their symptoms such as thyroid issues, head injuries or medication.
In certain instances an examiner may decide to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, such as mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders and substance abuse. 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.
Many people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic opportunity to continue research. However, participants must be aware that the primary goal of these studies is scientific knowledge, not an assurance of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information on clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD, it's important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists are covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a good choice.
A doctor will interview the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children, about 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 provide more information than what can be learned from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over documents from the past, and especially old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually based on the history of the individual. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically, before the age 12).
A physical exam is also usually done. It is a way to identify any other medical conditions that may be the cause of the symptoms, such as seizures or thyroid issues. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological examination, which tests for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to test the ability and intelligence of a person, could be used as well. A person may be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could help an expert determine if someone is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will choose the treatment plan and provide a diagnosis. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and help change negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
read here suffering from ADHD are helped by medications, however it's not the only option to treat the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies help them cope and cope with their ADHD symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can also include family members, teachers and professionals.
It's important to find a medical professional or mental health professional with expertise in treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online search. It is essential to find a specialist familiar with your insurance.
The doctor will inquire with you or your child about symptoms and issues caused by ADHD. They will conduct a physical examination and check for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over your or your child's medical and family information, school records and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily geared towards diagnosing children and adolescents, has a harder diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will interview you or your child about the signs and may also ask others who spend long periods 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 and lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD have co-occurring disorders like depression or anxiety. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches skills such as managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also help patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is important too. People with ADHD tend eat more sugar and fat, and less fruit and vegetables. Making social and family relationships priority can help reduce stress and make individuals feel more in charge of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can help children and adults better understand their challenges. read here with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their needs to teachers or other peers. Once a teacher understands that this is not an issue that is solely because of a lack of time, they can make adjustments.
adult adhd diagnosis uk who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared towards the person's specific age, interview family and teachers, read medical records, and look for any comorbidities. For adults, school records might be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The expert will also check for any hearing or vision problems. They might also conduct tests on blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.