How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is just a condition that affects children, but it can also affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in a person's life.
Interviewing the individual and their family members could be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist may look over old school records to determine if the symptoms started as a child.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that can affect school, work and family life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organised from time to time. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas, and that they significantly affect the daily functioning of the person for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical issues and family history. They may also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
For adults, doctors might request a conversation with an intimate partner or others who know the patient well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty but to gain insight into their behavior that isn't obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. They may ask about childhood behavior and refer to the old school records to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests on the lab to rule out any other health conditions, such as head injuries or thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also review a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments may be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatment options. It is crucial that adults speak to their primary health care providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must manifest in at least two places (such as home, school and at work) and cause impairment to functioning. They also must have begun before the age of 12, and the impairment can't be caused by another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional uses different tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour as well as a thorough medical history. They may also interview family members and friends to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask whether there are any other physical or mental 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 and family history to determine if there is any underlying causes for their issue, such as thyroid problems or head injuries.
In some cases, an evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. These people often present differently from those with no issues. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls display inattentional symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD might be interested in participating in an experiment in order to test new treatments. While this is a fantastic way to help further research, it is crucial for participants to know that the primary purpose of these studies is to increase scientific knowledge and do not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
For a person who suspects they have ADHD it is important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Make sure to check with your health insurance provider to find out whether ADHD specialists are covered, and seek out recommendations from family doctors or other health care professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are an option.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents, in the case of children -- about symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and ask others in the person's life for details like their spouses and families. Personal insight can reveal more than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to review any records the person might have, particularly old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often determined by the past of a person. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically before age 12).
Physical examinations are also carried out. It checks for other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam, that checks for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests to measure intelligence and abilities may be utilized. The test subject may be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will choose a treatment plan and make a diagnosis. Typically, the treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy is usually performed by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medication. However it is not the only treatment for the condition. Adults, teens and children are also able to benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies help them cope and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be incorporated. They can also involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
adhd diagnosis adult is important to find a medical professional or mental health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask other people with ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare provider you've met. You can also do an internet search. It is important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
To determine if your child has ADHD to determine the cause, a health care professional will inquire about your your child's symptoms and issues caused by the condition. They will do an examination of the body and look for other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical and family history, school records, and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) (DSM-V) which is primarily geared towards diagnosing children and adolescents, has a harder diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your doctor will talk to you or your child about their symptoms and may also request other people who spend many hours with them to 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. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
how to get diagnosed with adhd uk suffering from ADHD have co-occurring disorders such as anxiety or depression. Treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
Therapists can also help patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. For instance exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential as well. People who suffer from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar, and less fruits and vegetables. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce anxiety and make people feel more in control of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives children and adults a clearer comprehension of their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to teachers and peers, but once a teacher is aware that it's not personal or due to laziness, accommodations can be provided.
A professional who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions specific to the individual's age, ask questions of teachers and family members and review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, school records might help determine if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
The doctor will also look for any hearing or vision issues with hearing or vision. The doctor may also do tests on the blood to look for certain hormones as well as other health issues that may cause ADHD-like symptoms.