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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD

Many people believe ADHD is a normal condition that affects children however, it can affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can make a difference in a person's life.

An assessment for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The specialist could look through old school records to see if symptoms started in childhood.

Signs and symptoms

ADHD is a condition that affects work, school as well as home life. Everyone experiences difficulty in concentrating and staying organized at times. To be considered to have the disorder, one must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect everyday functioning. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.

A doctor will ask the patient about his or her symptoms, and also about any medical concerns and family history. click this can also use rating systems to measure symptoms in children or adults. These questionnaires are often based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and the tendency to be impulsive.

Adults might be asked to speak with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This isn't to question the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain more insight into the behavior of a person that cannot be gathered from the answers to a questionnaire. They may also ask about childhood behavior and use the old school records to determine whether the signs started before age 12.

Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct an examination and tests in the lab to rule out other health conditions, such as head injuries or thyroid issues that may 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 talk to their primary healthcare providers if they think they might have ADHD.

Diagnosis

To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in at least two different settings (such as at home, school, and work) and interfere with functioning. The symptoms must have appeared before the age of 12 and must not be caused by a different disorder such as anxiety or depression.

A psychiatrist or a mental health professional will use a variety of tools during the assessment, including ADHD symptom checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a detailed medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to find out how the symptoms affect them. They'll ask whether the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric conditions or physical ailments.

Evaluations will consider whether the symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also review the patient's medical and familial history to determine if there is any root causes behind their condition for example, thyroid problems or head injuries.

In some cases the evaluator may want to conduct cognitive testing or request that the person take an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those who do not have these issues. Boys tend to display hyperactive symptoms, whereas girls display inattentional symptoms.

A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to test new treatments. This is a great chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the main goal of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge, not a guarantee of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.

Treatment

For a person who suspects they have ADHD, it's important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider whether ADHD specialists will be covered. You could also ask your family physician or other health professionals for referrals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option.

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

Experts will also review any documents from the past, and especially old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history and, to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must be present since the age of a child (technically prior to age 12).

A physical exam is often performed. It checks for other medical conditions that may be the cause of symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological examination is often performed by a specialist to test the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, designed to test abilities and intelligence, may be utilized as well. A person could also be asked to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This could assist an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping skills and help change negative thinking patterns. This therapy is offered by a primary physician or a mental health specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD.

Medication

Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication. However it is not the only method of treating the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or a combination of both can be beneficial to adolescents, children, and adults. These therapies assist them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and learn how to live with the symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and how to manage it, may be incorporated. They could include teachers, family members and professionals.

It's important to locate a health care provider or mental health professional who has expertise in treating ADHD. You can ask for recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or conduct an online search. It is important to find a doctor 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 physical examinations and check for any other health issues that may trigger similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you, as well as school records and other documents.

The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the symptoms Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your doctor may interview you or your children about their symptoms and ask other people who spend lots 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They function by increasing and balancing neurotransmitters in the brain.

Counseling

Many people suffering from ADHD also have comorbid disorders, like anxiety or depression. The treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy that teaches skills such as time and task management as well as emotional self-regulation.


Therapists can help patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For example an exercise routine that is regularly practiced can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is essential as well. People suffering from ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat, and less fruits and vegetables. Making social and family relationships a top priority can help decrease stress and make individuals feel more in control of their lives.

Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children a better comprehension of their issues. For instance, a child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their needs to teachers and peers However, when a teacher realizes that it's not due to personal issues or to inattention, accommodations can be provided.

A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions geared towards the person's specific age, interview family and teachers, read medical files, and check for any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.

A physical exam is often included, and the expert will likely look for vision and hearing problems. They may also conduct an analysis of blood to check for certain hormones and other health issues that may cause symptoms of ADHD.

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