How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is just a child's issue but it can affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve the quality of life for a person.
An assessment for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The specialist may look over the school records from the past to determine whether the symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school and family life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organised from time to time. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect everyday functioning to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.
A doctor will inquire of the patient about their symptoms, as well as about any medical issues and family history. They may also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are usually 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.
Adults may be asked to talk to their significant other or someone they know well. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but rather to gain a better understanding of their behavior that isn't obtained from an interview. They may also ask about their childhood behavior, and look at the old school records to determine whether the symptoms began before age 12.
Before making a diagnosis the doctor will perform an extensive physical examination and run lab tests to rule other ailments, such as thyroid problems or head injuries, which could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression high blood pressure, depression and other conditions can interact with stimulants, so the doctor will take these into consideration when suggesting treatments. It's important that adults talk to their primary health care providers if they suspect they may be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in at least two settings (such as at home, school, and work) and cause impairment to functioning. They should also have been diagnosed at the age of 12 and the impairment can't be caused by another disorder, such as anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety tools during an evaluation that include ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed medical history. They might also talk to friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire whether there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also look at the medical history of the patient and family history to determine if there is no underlying cause for their issues like thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In certain instances, an evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or substance abuse. People with these problems tend to show different symptoms than those who do not suffer from them. Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms.
Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical trial to test new treatments. This is a fantastic opportunity to further research. However, participants should be aware that the main purpose of these studies is scientific knowledge, not a guarantee of treatment. For more information about clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect they may have ADHD it is important to find a professional who is experienced 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 providers for recommendations. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a good choice.
A doctor will speak with the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children -- about the symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in a person's life for information including spouses and their families. Personal insight can reveal more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
Experts will also look over old school records, and especially old reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is also conducted. It checks for other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid problems. The expert will often conduct a neurological exam that checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests to measure the level of intelligence and ability can be utilized. A person could also be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This could assist an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or inattentive. The specialist will then determine the diagnosis and suggest treatment. Treatment plans usually consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and change unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental healthcare specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD improve their condition by taking medications, however it's not the only method to treat the condition. Adults, teens and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn to live with these symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and how to manage it, could be incorporated. They can also include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It is important to find a health care provider or mental health professional who has previous experience treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or conduct an online search. It's important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.
The health professional will ask you or your child about the signs and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will conduct physical examinations and check for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of you or your child and also school records and other documents.
Finding out if you have ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about the symptoms and request that other people who spend lots of time with them to fill out checklists and questionnaires. adhd diagnosis in adult will use these to help them decide whether you or your child has inattentive ADHD, hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, combined ADHD or unspecified ADHD. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Counseling
Many people with ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, including anxiety or depression. Treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
Therapists can also help patients learn to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthier diet is also essential for those with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than other people. In addition, making relationships with family and friends prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children an understanding awareness of their difficulties. For instance, a child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her demands to peers and teachers however, once a teacher understands that it's not personal or due to inattention accommodations can be implemented.
A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions specific to the age of the person, talk to teachers and family members, review medical records, and look for comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood school records could be useful for adults.
A physical exam is typically included, and the expert will likely test for hearing and vision problems. He or she could also conduct an examination of the blood to test for certain hormones, as well as other health conditions which can cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.