How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD

Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, but it can affect adults too. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in a person's life.

An evaluation for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The specialist might review old school records to see whether the symptoms started in childhood.

Signs and symptoms

ADHD is a disorder that affects work, school and family life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and focusing from time to time. To be considered to have the disorder, someone must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly affect the daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months.

A doctor will ask the patient about his or her symptoms, as well as about any medical concerns and family history. They can also use rating scales to measure adult's or a child's symptoms. These questionnaires are usually built on 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 speak with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but rather to gain a better understanding of their behavior that isn't gained from a questionnaire. They could inquire about childhood behaviors and use old school records to determine if symptoms began before the age of 12.

Before determining the cause, the doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and run tests in order to rule other ailments like thyroid problems or head injuries, which could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the medication list of a patient. Doctors will look at the interactions between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. It is crucial that adults speak to their primary healthcare providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD.

Diagnosis

To be considered to have ADHD the symptoms must appear in at least two different settings (such as home, school and at work) and affect the functioning of the individual. The symptoms must have manifested before the age of 12 and must not be caused by another disorder like anxiety or depression.

A doctor or mental health professional will employ a variety of tools during the assessment which include ADHD symptom checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a thorough history. They may also interview friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They will also ask whether there are any other psychiatric conditions or physical conditions that have similar symptoms.

Evaluations will consider whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure there is no underlying cause for their issues, such as thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.

In some instances an examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or ask the person to 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 often present very differently from those who do not suffer from them. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, while girls show inattentive ones.

A few people suffering from ADHD might be interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. This is a fantastic chance to conduct further research. However, participants must be aware that the main goal of these studies is scientific knowledge, not an assurance of treatment. For more information about clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.

Treatment

For a person who suspects they have ADHD, it's important to find a specialist trained in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists are covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Additionally, referrals from word-of-mouth are a great option.

A doctor will ask the patient - or parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and also ask other people in a person's life for information including spouses and families. Personal insight can reveal more than what can be gleaned from questionnaires.

A professional will also want to examine any records that the person may have, including old school reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, in order to be diagnosed with the condition, symptoms must have been present from the age of a child (technically prior to the age of 12).

A physical exam is often performed. It is also checked for any other medical issues which could be causing symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid problems. A neurological examination is often conducted by the expert to check motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to test intelligence and ability, might be utilized as well. A person could be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This could help an expert determine if someone is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans usually include medication and therapy. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy coping strategies and alter negative thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD.

Medication

Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication. However this isn't the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination of the two can be beneficial for children, teens as well as adults. These therapies assist them to cope and live with their ADHD symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can also involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.

It is crucial to locate a mental health professional or health care professional with experience treating ADHD. You can seek recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health provider 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 care professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by the condition. They will do a physical exam and check for other health problems that may cause similar symptoms. how to diagnosis adhd will review your your child's medical history and family information, school records and other reports.

Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be a bit more difficult due to the fact that the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your doctor may 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 like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine as well as certain antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.

Counseling

Many people with ADHD suffer from comorbid disorders such as depression or anxiety. Treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral treatment which teaches techniques such as time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.

Therapists can also assist patients in managing their symptoms through lifestyle adjustments. For example exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. Lastly making family and social relationships an important factor can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives.

Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give children and adults a clearer awareness of their difficulties. For instance, a child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers and peers However, when a teacher realizes that it's not due to laziness, accommodations can be implemented.

A professional doing an ADHD assessment 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. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood school records could be helpful for adults.

The expert will also check for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. The doctor may also do an analysis of blood to look for certain hormones as well as other health conditions that can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
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