How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can affect adults too. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can lead a happier life.
A diagnosis for ADHD may involve interviewing the patient and their family members. The specialist could look through old school records to determine whether symptoms began in childhood.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that can affect school, work as well as home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized at times. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas, and have a significant impact on the daily functioning of the person to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire of the patient about his or her symptoms, as well as about any medical concerns and family history. They may also employ rating systems to assess symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and an impulsive nature.
In adult patients, doctors may ask to speak with a significant other or people who know the patient. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but rather to gain insight into their behavior that can't be obtained through a questionnaire. They may also ask about their childhood behavior and consult old school records to determine whether the symptoms began prior to the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will perform a physical exam and do lab tests to rule out any other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries that may cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other conditions can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will take these into account when recommending treatment options. This is why it's essential for adults to consult their primary care physicians if they think they might have ADHD.
Diagnosis
For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in more than one setting (like school, home, and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. They should also have been diagnosed at the age of 12 and the impairment cannot be caused by another disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will use a variety of tools during the assessment that include ADHD symptom checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a detailed medical history. They might also talk to family members or friends to learn how the symptoms affect them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to those of other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also examine the person's medical history and family history to make sure there is no root cause for their issues, such as thyroid disorders, head injuries or medication.
In some cases, an evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or request an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, including learning disabilities, mood disorders personality disorders, and addiction to drugs. These people often present differently from those with no issues. For instance, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while girls show inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. While Read Home Page is an excellent way to help further research, it's important for participants to understand that the primary purpose of these studies is to acquire scientific knowledge and do not necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD It is essential to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider for confirmation if ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other health professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good option.
A doctor will ask the patient or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask other people in a person's life for information like their spouses and their families. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to review any records that the person may have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually based on the history of a person. To be diagnosed the symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically, before the age 12).
A physical examination is also performed. It's also a way to check for other medical conditions which could be causing symptoms, such thyroid problems or seizures. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam that checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may also be used. The test subject may also be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This will help the professional determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive, or hyperactive or impulsive. The expert will decide on the best treatment plan and then make an assessment. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy is offered by a primary doctor or a mental health professional who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD are helped by medication. However it is not the only treatment for the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to live with them. They may include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It's crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health care professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask other people who suffer from ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you know. You can also do an online search. It is important to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
The health professional will inquire with you or your child about the symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will perform an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will review your your child's medical history and family information, school records and other reports.
Finding out if you have ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your doctor will interview you or your child about their symptoms and may ask others who spend many hours 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 or lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Because of this, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients can benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment that teaches skills such as time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also assist patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. diagnosed with adhd can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat and consume less fruits and vegetables than others. Lastly, making relationships with family and friends an important factor can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can help children and adults better comprehend their difficulties. A child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating their requirements to teachers or their other peers. When a teacher is aware that this isn't an issue that is solely due to laziness they can make adjustments.
A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are targeted to the person's age, talk to family members and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms began before age.
A physical exam is usually included, and the expert will likely test for vision and hearing problems. The doctor may also conduct an analysis of blood to check for specific hormones and other health conditions that can cause ADHD-like symptoms.