How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD

Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, but it can also affect adults. If diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can improve their life.

Interviewing the person and their family members can be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist could review old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as an infant.

Signs and symptoms

ADHD is a disorder that affects work, school as well as home life. Everyone has difficulty concentrating and focusing at times. The person must display significant symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect everyday functioning to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for a minimum of six months.

To establish a diagnosis doctors will talk to the patient about their symptoms and ask about their family history and medical conditions. They can also use rating scales to measure child's or adult's symptoms. These questionnaires are usually based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.

In adult patients, doctors may request a conversation with someone else in the family or who are familiar with the patient. This isn't to doubt the honesty of the patient, but to gain insight into the behavior of a person that cannot be obtained from an interview. They may also ask about their childhood behavior, and look at old school records to determine whether the symptoms began before the age of 12.

Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests in the lab to rule out any other health conditions, such as head injuries or thyroid issues that can cause similar symptoms. The provider will also check the patient's medication list. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other conditions can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatment options. 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 be evident in at least two different settings (such as school, home and at work) and interfere with functioning. They also must have begun before age 12, and the impairment must not be caused by a different disorder, like depression or anxiety.

A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will employ a variety tools during the evaluation that include ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a thorough history. They might also talk to family members and friends to find out how the patient's symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire whether the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric conditions or physical ailments.

Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to make sure there is no root cause for their issues such as thyroid issues or head injuries, or medications.

In certain instances an evaluator might 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 or addiction to drugs. People with these disorders often show different symptoms from those with no issues. For instance, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while girls exhibit inattention symptoms.

Some people with ADHD might be interested in participating in studies to try out new treatments. While this is a fantastic way to help further research, it is crucial for participants to understand that the purpose behind these studies is to gain information from the scientific community and does not necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.

Treatment

If you suspect you might have ADHD seek out a specialist who is qualified to identify 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 professionals. Also, word-of mouth referrals are a good choice.

A doctor will inquire with the patient or their parents in the case of children - about their issues. They may use standard questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and request details from other people in the patient's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insights can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.

A specialist will also need to look over any documents the person might have, including old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is dependent on the person's past, and in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).

Physical examinations are also usually done. It's also examined for any other medical issues which could be causing symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid problems. The expert will often conduct a neurological exam which checks for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, which are designed to measure the ability and intelligence of a person, could be used as well. In addition the person could be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test memory and attention. This can help an expert determine whether a person is hyperactive or inattentive. The specialist will then determine the diagnosis and suggest treatment. Typically, the treatment plan includes therapy and medication. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter unhelpful thought patterns. This therapy can be done by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who has a specialization in adult ADHD.

Medication

Many people with ADHD improve their condition by taking medication, but it's not the only method to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination can be beneficial for children, teens, and adults. These therapies aid them in coping and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can also involve family members, teachers and other professionals.

It is essential to find a health care provider or mental health professional who has experience treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or do an online search. It is recommended to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.

The health professional will ask you or your child about the symptoms and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will perform an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that may trigger similar symptoms. They will review your your child's medical and family history, school records, and other reports.

Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be trickier because the symptoms 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 their symptoms and have other people who spend lots of time with them 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. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Counseling

Many people who suffer from ADHD also have co-occurring disorders, like anxiety or depression. Because of this, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.

In addition, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms through lifestyle modifications. For example an exercise routine that is regularly practiced can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthier diet is important too. People with ADHD tend eat more sugar and fat, and less fruits and vegetables. Making adhd diagnosis uk adults 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 gives children and adults a clearer comprehension of their issues. For instance, a child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to peers and teachers, but when a teacher realizes that it's not due to personal issues or to a lack of motivation accommodations can be implemented.

A professional doing an ADHD assessment will ask questions that are geared towards the individual's age, ask questions of family members and teachers as well as review medical records and look for comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records can be helpful for adults.

The doctor will also look for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. The doctor may also conduct tests on the blood to check for certain hormones and other health issues that could cause symptoms of ADHD.