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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD
Many people think ADHD is just a child's condition, but it can also affect adults. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can help improve a person's life.
An assessment for ADHD might include interviewing the person and family members. The doctor may also examine old school records to determine whether symptoms began as when a child.
Symptoms
ADHD is a condition that affects work, school and family life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organised from time to time. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a person must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly hinder the daily functioning. The symptoms must have also been present for at least six months.
To make a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family medical history and any medical issues. They can also utilize rating scales that measure a adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.
Adults may be asked to talk with their spouse or someone they know well. This isn't meant to challenge the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain insight into the person's behavior that cannot be gathered from a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior, and look at the old school records to determine if the symptoms started prior to the age of 12.
Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests in the lab to rule out other health issues, like head injuries or thyroid issues that may cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the patient's list of medications. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other ailments may interact with stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when recommending treatments. It is crucial that adults speak with their primary healthcare provider if they suspect they may be suffering from ADHD.
Diagnosis
To be considered to have ADHD symptoms must manifest 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 age 12, and the impairment can't be due to another disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
A mental health professional will use various tools to evaluate the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists, standardized behaviour rating scales as well as a thorough medical history. They may also interview friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They'll ask whether the symptoms are similar to those of other psychiatric disorders or physical ailments.
The evaluators will look at whether the symptoms are serious or mild. They will also examine the patient's medical and familial background to determine if there are any underlying causes for their issue, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries.
In some instances the evaluator may want to conduct cognitive testing or request that the person take an imaging test in order to determine the cause of their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People who suffer from these issues often present very differently from those who don't have them. For instance, boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls show inattention symptoms.
Many people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical study to try out new treatments. While this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to further research, it is crucial for participants to know that the primary purpose of these studies is to acquire information from the scientific community and does not necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. For more info rmation on clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.
Treatment
If you suspect you may have ADHD, find a professional who is trained to recognize the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to find out if ADHD specialists are covered. You can also seek referrals from family doctors or other health professionals. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a good option.
A doctor will inquire with the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. They may use standard questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and request details from other people in the person's life, such as spouses and family members. Personal insights can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires.
Experts will also examine any documents from the past and reports, particularly those from the past. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history, and to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must have been present since childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).
Physical examinations are also often performed. It will look for any other medical problems that could be the cause of symptoms, like seizure disorders or thyroid problems. The expert will often conduct a neurological examination, which tests for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests that test the ability to think and be smart could be utilized. In addition one could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test memory and attention. This could assist an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans usually comprise therapy and medication. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can help children and adults learn healthy coping techniques and change destructive thought patterns. This therapy is usually performed 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 medication, but it's not the only way to treat the condition. Adults, teens and children are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to live with them. Psychoeducation, or education about ADHD and ways to manage it, may be included. They may involve family members, teachers and other professionals.
It's important to find a medical professional or mental health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or conduct an online search. It is recommended to find an expert who is familiar with your insurance plan.
To diagnose ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms and issues caused by them. They will perform an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of you or your child, as well as school documents and other reports.
The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V), which is primarily geared towards diagnosing children, has a more difficult diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your doctor will ask you or your child about the signs and may also ask 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 such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They function by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Counseling
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, such as anxiety or depression. The treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment that teaches skills such as time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.
Therapists can also assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is crucial too. how to diagnosis adhd suffering from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. Making social and family relationships a top priority can help decrease anxiety and make people feel more in charge of their lives.
A diagnosis of ADHD can aid adults and children to comprehend their difficulties. For instance, a child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to peers and teachers however, once a teacher understands that it's not due to personal issues or to inattention, accommodations can be made.
A professional doing an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the person's age, interview teachers and relatives, review medical records, and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, records from school could be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms began before age.
The expert will also check for any hearing or vision problems. The doctor may also perform a blood test to determine the presence of certain hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms of ADHD.