How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is a normal condition that affects children, but it can also affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve a person's life.
Interviewing the individual and their family members can be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The doctor may also examine the school records of the past to determine if symptoms began as when a child.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time to time however, for those who has ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and home life. To be considered to have the disorder, a person must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and demonstrate that the symptoms significantly hinder daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire of the patient about their symptoms, as well as regarding any medical issues or family history. how to diagnosis adhd may also use rating systems to assess symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
For adults, doctors might require a discussion with a significant other or people who are familiar with the patient. This is not to question the patient's honesty but to gain more insight about their behavior that isn't obtained from a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at the old school records to determine whether the signs started before age 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests in the lab to rule out any other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other conditions can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatments. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to speak to their primary care physicians in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD, the symptoms must be evident in at least two settings (such as school, home and at work) and interfere with functioning. They must also have started before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety tools during the evaluation that include ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They might also talk to family members and friends to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire whether there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions that exhibit similar symptoms.
The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also look at the person's medical history and family history to ensure there is no root cause of their problems such as thyroid issues or head injuries, or medications.
In some instances an examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders and alcohol abuse. People suffering from these disorders often present very differently from those who do not have them. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, while girls display inattentional symptoms.
Many people with ADHD might be interested in participating in studies to test new treatments. This is a fantastic chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the primary goal of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge, not a guarantee of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD it is important to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Make sure to check with your health insurance provider to see whether ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek referrals from family doctors or other health professionals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will speak with the patient -or their parents, in children's cases -- about the symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and also ask others in the person's life for details like their spouses and families. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to look over any documents that the individual may have, especially old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical examination is also performed. It is also checked for other medical conditions which could be causing symptoms, for instance thyroid problems or seizures. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological exam which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, designed to test abilities and intelligence, may be used as well. A person could be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could help the expert determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive, or hyperactive or impulsive. The specialist will then decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy ways to cope and change destructive thought patterns. This therapy is offered by a primary doctor or a mental healthcare professional who is a specialist in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD get better by taking medication. However it is not the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of the two can be beneficial to adolescents, children, and adults. These therapies aid them in coping and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It's crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can seek suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or perform an online search. It's important to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
The health professional will inquire with you or your child about the signs and problems caused by ADHD. They will conduct a physical exam and check for other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review your or your child's medical and family history, school records, and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is primarily designed to diagnose children is more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your doctor will ask you or your child regarding their symptoms, and may request others 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 drugs used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, such as anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
Therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Making social and family relationships a priority can reduce stress and make individuals feel more in charge of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can help children and adults better recognize their issues. For visit the up coming post , a child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her needs to peers and teachers, but once a teacher understands that it's not due to a lack of motivation accommodations can be implemented.
A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions geared towards the person's specific age, interview family and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbidities. For adults, records from schools could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.
A physical exam is often included, and the doctor will likely look for hearing and vision issues. He or she may also perform an examination of the blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, as well as other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.