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13 Things You Should Know About ADHD Diagnose That You Might Not Have Known
How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD

Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, but it can affect adults too. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can make a difference in the quality of life of a person.

An assessment for ADHD could involve a conversation with the person and family members. The doctor may also look over the school records of the past 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 has difficulty concentrating and staying organized at times. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas and they must be able to significantly impact the way they function in their daily lives to be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms must have been present for at least six months.

To make a diagnosis, doctors will speak with the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family history and medical conditions. They may also use rating scales to measure child's or adult's symptoms. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive.

Adults might be asked to speak with their significant other or someone who knows them well. This isn't meant to challenge honesty, but to gain insight into the person's behavior that cannot be gathered from a questionnaire. They may also ask about their childhood behavior and consult the old school records to determine if the symptoms started before age 12.

Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests on the lab to rule out other health issues, like thyroid issues or head injuries that may cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over a person's medication list. Certain medications for depression, high blood pressure and other conditions can interact with stimulants, and the doctor will consider these when suggesting treatment options. It is essential that adults talk with their primary healthcare provider in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.

Diagnosis

For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in two or more settings (like school, home and work) and have a significant impact on functioning. They must also have started at the age of 12 and the impairment can't be caused by a different disorder, like depression or anxiety.

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

The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also review the person's medical history and family history to make sure there isn't any underlying reason for their symptoms such as thyroid issues or head injuries, or medications.

In some cases an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or have the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders or addiction to drugs. People with these disorders often show different symptoms than those who do not have these issues. For instance, boys tend to show hyperactive symptoms and girls inattentive symptoms.

A few people suffering from ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to try out new treatments. This is an excellent opportunity to further research. However, participants must be aware that the primary objective of these studies is scientific knowledge, not the guarantee of treatment. For more information about clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.

Treatment

If you suspect you may have ADHD seek out a specialist who is certified to diagnose the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider for confirmation if ADHD specialists are covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other healthcare providers for recommendations. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good option.

A doctor will ask the patient - or their parents in the case of children - about their symptoms. She might use checklists with standardized criteria or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask others in the person's life for details including spouses and their families. Personal insights can provide more information than what can be learned from questionnaires.

Experts will also review any old school records particularly old reports. Often, the diagnosis of ADHD is based on a person's history, and to be able to identify the condition, the symptoms must be present from childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).

Physical examinations are also usually done. It is also checked for other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, such seizures or thyroid problems. The expert will often conduct a neurological exam that checks for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to measure the ability and intelligence of a person, could be utilized as well. Additionally one could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test memory and attention. This could help an expert determine if someone is hyperactive or not. The expert will determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans usually include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help adults and children learn healthy coping strategies and alter destructive thought patterns. This therapy can be done by the 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, though it's not the only option to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults can also benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies assist them to cope and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and ways to manage it, can be incorporated. They can also involve family members, teachers and other professionals.

It's important to locate a health care provider or mental health professional who has experience treating ADHD. You can ask other people with ADHD for suggestions or refer to a mental health provider you know. You can also conduct an internet search. It is recommended to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan.

The health care provider will ask you or your child about the symptoms and issues caused by ADHD. They will do a physical exam and check for other health problems which could trigger similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of you or your child along with school records and other reports.

The process of 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 their symptoms and have 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine and nonstimulants such as atomoxetine, or other antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.

Counseling

Many people suffering from ADHD have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Treatment should therefore include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.

Additionally, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. adhd diagnosed is important as well. People who suffer from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar and less fruits and vegetables. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce stress and help people feel more in charge of their lives.

Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children an understanding understanding of their challenges. For example, a child who has ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her demands to peers and teachers However, when a teacher realizes that it's not personal or due to a lack of motivation, accommodations can be provided.

A professional conducting an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the individual's age, ask questions of family members and teachers as well as review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, school records might be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms began before age.

The specialist will also check for any hearing or vision problems with hearing or vision. He or she could also conduct tests on blood to determine the presence of certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause symptoms similar to ADHD.

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