How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is a child's condition, but it can also affect adults. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD, a person can improve their life.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members may be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist could look over old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as when a child.
Signs and symptoms
Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time to time However, for those who suffers from ADHD this can cause problems with school, work and home life. To be able to identify the disorder, someone must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly impair daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.
To establish a diagnosis doctors will talk to the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about family history and medical problems. They may also use rating systems to measure symptoms in adults and children. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These include questions about symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults might be asked to talk with their significant other or someone they know well. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but rather to gain more insight about their behavior that isn't obtained from a questionnaire. They might inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an extensive physical examination and run tests in order to rule other conditions for thyroid issues or head injuries, which can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also check the patient's list of medications. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other conditions can be a trigger for stimulants, so the doctor will take these into consideration when recommending treatment options. It's important that adults talk to their primary healthcare providers in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD the symptoms must be evident in at least two places (such as home, school, and work) and affect the functioning of the individual. They must also have started before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be due to another disorder, like anxiety or depression.
A mental health professional uses various tools to evaluate the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour, and a detailed medical history. adhd adult diagnosis uk may also interview friends and family members to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They'll ask whether the symptoms are similar to those of other psychiatric disorders or physical ailments.
Evaluations will consider whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the person's medical history as well as family history to determine if there is no root cause of their problems, such as thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In certain instances an examiner may decide to perform cognitive testing or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, including learning disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders or substance abuse. People with these problems typically present differently than those who do not suffer from them. For instance, boys are more likely to show hyperactive symptoms and girls show inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. While this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to further research, it is important for participants to understand that the main purpose of these studies is to acquire scientific knowledge and do not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information about clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect they have ADHD, it's important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire if ADHD specialists will be covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare professionals for referrals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and request details from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight can reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A specialist will also need to look over any documents that the individual may have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often based on the history of the individual. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are 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 typically performed by a specialist to test motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, designed to measure the ability and intelligence of a person, could be used as well. The test subject may be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This will help the professional determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive or an impulsive. The expert will determine the diagnosis and suggest treatment. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be offered by a primary physician or a mental healthcare professional who is an expert in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD improve their condition by taking medication, but it's not the only method to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of both can be beneficial to adolescents, children as well as adults. These therapies help them cope 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 can also involve teachers, parents and other professionals.
It is essential to locate an expert in mental health or health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask for suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or perform an online search. It's best to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD, the health professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by them. They will perform physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over your your child's medical history 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 time diagnosing ADHD in adults. Your doctor will interview you or your child regarding their symptoms, and may request other people who spend a lot of time 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 as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people suffering from ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders like anxiety or depression. This is why treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may 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 to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is important; people with ADHD tend to eat higher levels of sugar and fat, and eat fewer fruits and vegetables than others. In addition making social and family relationships prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid adults and children to comprehend their difficulties. For instance, a child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to peers and teachers however, when a teacher realizes that it's not personal or due to laziness accommodations can be made.
A professional who conducts an ADHD assessment will ask questions specific to the person's age, interview family members and teachers, review medical records, and look for comorbidities. For adults, school records might help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The doctor will also look for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. They might also conduct a blood test in order to determine the presence of certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.