How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can also affect adults. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can improve the quality of life of a person.
Interviewing the person as well as their family members could be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist may look over old school records to determine whether the symptoms started in the early years of childhood.
Symptoms
ADHD is a disorder that can affect school, work and family life. Everyone has difficulty concentrating and focusing at times. To be able to identify the disorder, someone must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly hinder everyday functioning. The symptoms must have also been present for at least six months.
A doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical issues and family history. They can also utilize rating scales to assess a adult's or child's symptoms. These types of questionnaires are typically based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults might be asked to talk with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but to gain insight into their behavior that isn't obtained through the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behavior and refer to old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.
Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform a physical exam and do tests on the lab to rule out other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the patient's medications. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other conditions can interact with stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when recommending treatment options. It's important that adults talk to their primary healthcare providers when 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 should also have been diagnosed before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, like depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional uses 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 find out how the symptoms affect them. They'll inquire whether the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other psychiatric conditions or physical ailments.
Evaluations will consider whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to make sure there isn't any underlying reason for their symptoms, such as thyroid disorders and head injuries, as well as medication.
In some instances an examiner may decide to perform cognitive testing or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders and addiction to drugs. People who suffer from these issues tend to show different symptoms than those who do not have them. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls show inattentive ones.
Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in studies to test new treatments. This is a great chance to conduct 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
For a person who suspects they have ADHD, it's important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also ask family doctors or other health professionals for recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also an alternative.
A doctor will speak with the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children -- about symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptoms checklists, and request details from other people in the patient's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insight will reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.
A professional will also want to look over any documents that the person may have, particularly old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually determined by the past of an individual. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must have been present since the time of childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
A physical exam is also typically performed. It is a way to identify any other medical issues that could be responsible for the symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizure disorders. A neurological examination is often performed by a specialist to test motor control and coordination. Psychological tests to measure intelligence and abilities may also be used. In addition one could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test memory and attention. This could help the expert determine if someone is hyperactive, inattentive, or an impulsive. The expert will then determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans typically include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy can be provided by a primary physician or a mental healthcare professional who is a specialist in adult ADHD.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medication. However this isn't the only method of treating the condition. Adults, teens and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn to live with these symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They could include teachers, family members, and professionals.
It's crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or conduct an online search. It is recommended to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
The health care provider will ask you or your child about the symptoms and problems caused by ADHD. They will conduct physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that may trigger similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of you or your child along with school records and other documents.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is primarily geared towards diagnosing children, has a more difficult to diagnose ADHD in adults. Your doctor will ask you or your child about their symptoms and may also request others 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. The drugs used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Therefore, adhd diagnosis adult uk should include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation, and impulse control.
Therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is also crucial for people with ADHD tend to eat more sugar and fat, and eat fewer fruits and vegetables than others. In addition 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 aid children and adults to understand their challenges. For instance, a child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her needs to peers and teachers However, when a teacher realizes that it's not due to personal issues or to laziness, accommodations can be implemented.
A professional conducting an ADHD evaluation will ask questions geared toward the person's age, interview family members and teachers as well as review medical records and determine if there are any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.
The doctor will also look for any hearing or vision issues with hearing or vision. They may also conduct an analysis of blood to look for certain hormones and other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.