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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can affect adults as well. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can improve their life.
An evaluation for ADHD could involve a conversation with the person and family members. The specialist could look through the school records from the past to determine if symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone struggles with concentration and staying well-organized from time to time However, for those who has ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and even home life. A person must show major symptoms in two of these areas, and they must be able to significantly impact everyday functioning to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for a minimum of six months.
To make a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family history and medical conditions. They may also use rating systems to gauge symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
In adults, doctors may request a conversation with someone else in the family or who know the patient well. This isn't to doubt the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain more insight into the behavior of a person that cannot be gleaned from a questionnaire. They might inquire about childhood behaviors and use old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will perform an examination and tests on the lab to rule out any other health issues, like head injuries or thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the patient's list of medications. 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 essential for adults to consult their primary care physicians if they think they might be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be diagnosed with ADHD, the symptoms must appear in at least two different settings (such as at home, school, and work) and interfere with functioning. They also must have begun before age 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional will use various tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptom lists, standardized behaviour rating scales and a thorough medical history. They can also speak with family members or friends to learn how the symptoms affect them. They can also inquire if there are any other physical or mental illnesses that display similar symptoms.
The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also examine the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there isn't any underlying cause for their issues like thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.
In certain instances, the evaluator might want to conduct a cognitive test or request that the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms like learning disabilities. adhd uk diagnosis suffering from these disorders typically present differently than those who don't have them. Boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls show inattentive ones.
Many people with ADHD would like to participate in studies to try out new treatments. While this is a fantastic method to aid in further research, it is crucial for participants to realize that the main purpose of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and do not necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect they have ADHD it is important to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Check with adhd undiagnosed in adults whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a good choice.
A doctor will interview the patient -or their parents in the case of children, about symptoms. They may use standard questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and request information from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal experience often reveals more than can be discovered from questionnaires.
An expert will also want to review any records that the person may have, particularly old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is also usually done. It is a way to identify any other medical conditions that may be the cause of the symptoms, such as seizure disorders or thyroid problems. A neurological exam is usually carried out by an expert to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test intelligence and abilities may also be used. A person may be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This will help the professional determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive, or hyperactive or impulsive. The specialist will then decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. Treatment plans usually consist of therapy and medication. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy ways to cope and change negative thinking patterns. This therapy can be done by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.
Medication

Many people suffering from ADHD improve their condition by taking medications, however it's not the only option to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults can also benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage these symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They may involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It is important to find a medical professional or mental health professional with expertise in treating ADHD. You can ask for recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or conduct an online search. It's important to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.
To determine if your child has ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your your child's symptoms and problems caused by them. They will conduct a physical examination and check for any other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of your child or you, as well as school records and other reports.
The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your health care provider may interview you or your children about their symptoms and have others who spend a lot 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. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD also have comorbid disorders, including depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should include therapy that targets 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 changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is crucial for people with ADHD tend to consume more 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 control of their lives.
Another major benefit of having an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children a better comprehension of their issues. For instance, a child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to peers and teachers however, once a teacher understands that it's not due to a lack of motivation accommodations can be implemented.
A professional evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared to the individual's age, talk to family members and teachers, read medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records could be helpful for adults.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing problems with hearing or vision. They may also do a blood test to look for specific hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms of ADHD.