How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD

Many people believe ADHD is a condition that affects children, but it can also affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can help improve a person's life.

A diagnosis for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The doctor may also examine old school records to determine if the symptoms started as a child.

Symptoms

ADHD is a condition that can affect school, work as well as home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and focusing at times. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas and have a significant impact on the daily functioning of the person to be deemed to have ADHD. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.

A doctor will inquire of the patient about his or her symptoms, as well as about any medical concerns and family history. They can also utilize rating scales to assess a adult's or a child's symptoms. These types of questionnaires are typically built on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.

Adults may be asked to talk to their spouse or someone they know well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty, but rather to gain a better understanding of their behavior that isn't gained from a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior and consult old school records to see if the symptoms started before the age of 12.

Before making a diagnosis, the doctor will perform a physical exam and do tests in the lab to rule out any other health conditions, such as thyroid problems or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the patient's medications. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and specific medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other issues. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to speak to their primary healthcare providers if they think they might be suffering from ADHD.


Diagnosis

To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in more than one setting (like school, home and work) and significantly interfere with functioning. They should also have been diagnosed before the age of 12, and the impairment cannot be caused by a different disorder, such as anxiety or depression.

A doctor or mental health professional will employ a variety of tools during the assessment, including ADHD symptom checklists as well as standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They may also interview family members or friends to learn how the symptoms affect them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions.

The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild or severe. They will also examine the person's medical history as well as family history to make sure there is no underlying reason for their symptoms, such as thyroid disorders, head injuries or medication.

In some cases an examiner may decide to perform cognitive testing or request an imaging test to rule out other reasons for their symptoms, including mood disorders, learning disabilities personality disorders, and alcohol abuse. People who suffer from these issues often present very differently from those who do not have them. For example, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls inattentive symptoms.

Many people with ADHD might be interested in participating in an experiment in order to test new treatments. This is a fantastic chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the primary purpose of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and is not an assurance of treatment. For more information about clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.

Treatment

If you suspect you have ADHD seek out a specialist who is trained to recognize the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to determine if ADHD specialists are covered, and seek out referrals from family doctors or other health care providers. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a great option.

A doctor will inquire with the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom 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.

Experts will also examine any old school records and reports, particularly those from the past. The diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically before age 12).

A physical exam is typically performed. It's also examined for other medical conditions which could be causing symptoms, such seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological exam is usually carried out by an expert to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test the ability to think and be smart could also be used. The test subject may be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test memory and attention. This could help the expert determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive or an impulsive. The expert will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans typically consist of therapy and medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and change unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by an primary care physician or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.

Medication

Many people with ADHD are helped by medication. However this isn't the only treatment for the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies help them cope and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can include teachers, family members, and professionals.

It's crucial to locate an expert in mental health or health professional who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can ask other people with ADHD for suggestions or a mental health provider you know. You can also do an internet search. It's important to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance.

To diagnose ADHD or other disorders, your health care professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms and issues caused by them. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over your or your child's medical history and family history, school records, and other reports.

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 health care provider might interview you or your children about the symptoms and have other people who spend lots of time with them to fill out checklists and questionnaires. 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 as well as certain antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.

Counseling

Many people with ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. This is why treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches skills like managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation.

Additionally, therapists can assist patients in managing their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can help decrease hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is important as well. People with ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat, and less fruits and vegetables. In addition, making family and social relationships prioritizing relationships can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.

A diagnosis of ADHD can aid children and adults to comprehend their difficulties. A child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to their teachers or other peers. Once a teacher understands that this is not a personal issue or due to laziness they can provide adjustments.

A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the age of the person, talk to teachers and relatives as well as review medical records and look for comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood, school records can be useful for adults.

The expert will also check for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. adhd diagnosis adult uk or she will also do tests on the blood to check for specific hormones and other health conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.