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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, but it can also affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life for a person.
An evaluation for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The specialist could look over the school records of the past to determine if symptoms began as when a child.
Symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying well-organized from time to time, but for someone who has ADHD, these problems interfere with work, school and family life. To be able to identify the disorder, someone must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must also be present for at least six months.
To determine a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and ask about family history and medical conditions. They may also employ rating systems to assess symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
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 gained from a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at the old school records to determine whether the symptoms began prior to the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests in the lab to rule out any other health issues, like thyroid problems or head injuries which can trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over a person's medication list. Doctors will look at the interactions between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other conditions. This is why it's important for adults to speak to their primary healthcare providers when they suspect they have ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in two or more settings (like school, home and at work) and significantly interfere with functioning. They should also have been diagnosed before the age of 12, and the impairment can't be caused by another disorder, like depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional will use different tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists, standardized behaviour rating scales, and a detailed medical history. They might also talk to family members or friends to determine what the symptoms have done to them. They will ask if the symptoms are similar to those of other mental health conditions or physical ailments.
Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also look at the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there is no underlying reason for their symptoms such as thyroid issues and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some cases, an evaluator may want to perform cognitive testing or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities personality disorders, and substance abuse. People with these issues often appear differently than those who do not have these issues. For instance, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in participating in an experiment in order to test out new treatments. This is an excellent chance to conduct 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 on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect you may have ADHD seek out a specialist who is qualified to recognize the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists are covered. You could also ask your family physician or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are an alternative.
A doctor will ask the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about the symptoms they experience. They can use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, or ask for details from other people in the person's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insights will reveal more than can be learned from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to review any records that the person may have, especially old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).
A physical examination is also conducted. It's also a way to check for any other medical issues that may cause symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizures. A neurological examination is often conducted by the expert to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests to measure the ability to think and be smart could be used. In addition the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that evaluate attention and memory. This can help an expert determine if someone is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will decide on the treatment plan and provide a diagnosis. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping strategies and help change negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people with ADHD improve their condition by taking medication, though it's not the only option to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination of the two can be beneficial to teenagers, children as well as adults. These therapies assist them to cope and live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and how to manage it, could be incorporated. They can also include teachers, family members and professionals.
It's important to locate a health care provider or mental health professional who has experience treating ADHD. You can ask other people who suffer from ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you know. You can also conduct an online search. It is recommended to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The health professional will ask you or your child about symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will do a physical exam and check for any other health issues which could trigger similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of you or your child along with school records and other documents.
Diagnosing 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 doctor will ask you or your child regarding their symptoms and may also ask other people 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. ADHD medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
how to get diagnosed with adhd uk with ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.
adhd diagnosis adult can also help patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For example an exercise routine that is regularly practiced can help reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential too. People who suffer from ADHD tend eat more fat and sugar, and less fruit and vegetables. Also making social and family relationships 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 recognize their issues. A child diagnosed with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to their teachers or friends. When a teacher is aware that this is not a personal issue or because of a lack of time, they can make adjustments.
A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are geared to the individual's age, interview family and teachers, read medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could be useful in determining whether the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood.
The doctor will also look for any hearing or vision problems. They could also conduct tests on blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, and other health conditions which can cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.