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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD Many people believe that ADHD is a condition only of children, but it can affect adults as well. Being diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve the quality of life for a person. Interviewing the person and their family members could be a part of an evaluation for ADHD. The specialist might review the school records from the past to determine whether symptoms began in childhood. Signs and 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 show major 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 at least six months. A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, and also about any medical issues and family history. They may also use rating scales to measure adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are usually based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. In adults, doctors may request a conversation with a significant other or people who know the patient well. This is not to question the patient's honesty, but rather to gain insight into their behavior that cannot be obtained through an interview. They could inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult old school records to determine if the symptoms started before the age of 12. Before determining a diagnosis, the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run tests in order to rule other conditions like thyroid problems or head injuries, which could cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over the patient's medications. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other ailments can interact with stimulants, so the doctor will consider these when suggesting treatment options. It is crucial that adults speak to their primary health care providers in the event that they suspect they have ADHD. Diagnosis To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in two or more settings (like school, home and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. They should also have been diagnosed before the age of 12, and the impairment can't be due to another disorder, such as depression or anxiety. A psychiatrist or a 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 detailed medical history. They might also talk to friends and family members to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire whether there are any other physical or mental conditions that exhibit similar symptoms. The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild or severe. adhd undiagnosed in adults will also look into the person's medical and family history in order to determine if there are underlying causes for their issue like thyroid issues or head injuries. In certain instances the evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes of their symptoms like learning disabilities. These people often present differently than those without these problems. For example, boys tend to have hyperactive symptoms while 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 continue research. However, participants should be aware that the primary goal of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge and not necessarily an assurance of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet. Treatment If you suspect that you might have ADHD Find a doctor who is trained to diagnose the disorder. Contact your health insurance company to inquire whether ADHD specialists are covered. You could also ask your family physician or other health professionals for referrals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good alternative. A doctor will interview the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children -- about 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 insights can provide more information than what can be gleaned from questionnaires. Experts will also review any old school records, and especially old reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is often determined by the past of a person. To be diagnosed the symptoms must be present from childhood (technically before age 12). A physical examination is also performed. It is also checked for any other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, for instance seizures or thyroid issues. A neurological examination is often performed by a specialist to check motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, designed to assess the ability and intelligence of a person, could be used as well. A person could be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This can help an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or inattentional. The expert will decide on a diagnosis and suggest treatment. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy may help adults and children learn healthy ways to cope and change 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 are helped by medication, though it's not the only option to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults can also benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them to cope and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They may involve family members, teachers and other professionals. It is essential to locate an expert in mental health or health care provider who is experienced in treating ADHD. You can ask for recommendations from other people with ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online 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 as well as the problems caused by the condition. They will do an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will review your or your child's medical history and family information, school records and other reports. Finding out if you have ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily geared towards diagnosing 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 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. ADHD medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine and nonstimulants like atomoxetine as well as certain antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. adult diagnosis adhd suffering from ADHD have comorbid disorders like anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities like time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control. Therapists can also assist patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For instance exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is crucial too. People who suffer from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar, and less fruits and vegetables. Making family and social relationships a priority can reduce stress and make individuals feel more in control of their lives. A diagnosis of ADHD can aid children and adults to recognize their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD might have difficulty communicating his or her needs to peers and teachers, but once a teacher is aware that it's not personal or due to laziness, accommodations can be made. A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are geared to the individual's age, speak with family and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood. A physical exam is usually included, and the specialist will likely check for hearing and vision issues. They might also conduct a blood test in order to test for certain hormones, as well as other health conditions which can cause symptoms similar to ADHD.
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