How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe ADHD is just a condition that affects children but it can affect adults. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD an individual can improve their life.
An evaluation for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The specialist might review old school records to determine if symptoms started in childhood.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time-to-time However, for those who suffers from ADHD this can cause problems with work, school and home life. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas, and that they significantly affect the way they function in their daily lives to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about family history and medical conditions. They may also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are usually based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsive nature.
Adults might be asked to speak with their significant other or someone who knows them well. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but to gain insight into their behavior that can't be obtained from an interview. They may also ask about childhood behavior and use the old school records to determine if the symptoms started prior to the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests in the lab to rule out other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The provider will also review the patient's medications. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other ailments. This is why it's important for adults to consult their primary care providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
undiagnosed adhd in adults
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in more than one setting (like school, home and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. They also must have begun before age 12, and the impairment can't be caused by another disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional uses different tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptom lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour and a thorough medical history. They can also speak with family members or friends to determine how the symptoms have affected them. They will also ask whether there are other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions that have similar symptoms.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to make sure there is no underlying cause of their problems like thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In certain instances 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 and substance abuse. These people often present differently from those with no issues. For instance, boys are more likely to show hyperactive symptoms and girls inattentive symptoms.
Some people with ADHD would like to participate in studies to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic opportunity to further research. However, participants must be aware that the main objective of these studies is scientific knowledge, not an assurance of treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information about clinical trials.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have ADHD seek out a specialist who is qualified to identify the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for recommendations. 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. They can use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and request details from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to review any records that the individual may have, including old school 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 the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is also usually done. It's also examined for any other medical issues that could be causing symptoms, such seizures or thyroid issues. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological exam which checks for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that measure the level of intelligence and ability can be used. A person could be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine if the person is hyperactive or not. The expert will decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. The treatment typically includes therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping strategies and help change negative thinking patterns. This therapy can be done by an primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve their condition by taking medication, though it's not the only method to treat the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage them. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and how to manage it, could be incorporated. They may involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.
It's important to find a health care provider or mental health professional who has experience treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or perform an online search. It is best to locate an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The doctor will inquire with you or your child about the signs and problems caused by ADHD. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of you or your child and also school documents and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your doctor will talk to you or your child about the signs and may ask others who spend long periods of time 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 such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, including depression or anxiety. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management and emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also help patients learn to manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is important too. People who suffer from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. Making family and social relationships a top priority can help decrease stress and help people feel more in control of their lives.
Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children a better comprehension of their issues. For instance, a child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to teachers and peers However, once a teacher understands that it's not due to personal issues or to a lack of motivation, accommodations can be implemented.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared to the individual's age, interview family and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms began before the age of adulthood, school records can be useful for adults.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing problems with hearing or vision. They may also do tests on the blood to check for certain hormones as well as other health issues that could cause ADHD-like symptoms.