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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD Many people believe that ADHD is only a condition of children, however it can affect adults as well. When diagnosed and treated for ADHD the patient can live a better life. Interviewing the person as well as their family members can be a part of a diagnostic for ADHD. The specialist could look over old school records in order to determine whether symptoms began as a child. Signs and symptoms Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organized from time to time However, for those who has ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with school, work and even home life. To be considered to have the disorder, one must show signs of major impairment in at least two of these areas and show that the symptoms significantly impair the daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months. To establish a diagnosis doctors will talk to the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family history and medical problems. They can also use rating scales to measure child's or adult's symptoms. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They ask about symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. In adult patients, doctors may request a conversation with someone else in the family or who know the patient well. This isn't meant to challenge the honesty of the patient, but to gain a better understanding of a person's behavior that can't be gathered from a questionnaire. You can also inquire about their childhood behavior and consult 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 thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the patient's medications. Certain medications for depression or high blood pressure, as well as other ailments may interact with stimulants, and the doctor will take these into account when suggesting treatments. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to consult their primary healthcare providers when they suspect they have ADHD. Diagnosis To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in two or more settings (like school, home, and work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must have manifested before the age of 12 and must not be caused by another disorder such as anxiety or depression. A mental health professional or doctor will employ a variety of tools during the assessment which include ADHD symptoms checklists and standardized scales for assessing behavior and a thorough history. They may interview family members and friends to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They can also inquire whether there are any other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions that exhibit similar symptoms. Evaluators will take into account whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also look into the patient's medical and familial history to determine if there is any underlying causes of their problem for example, thyroid problems or head injuries. In certain instances an examiner may decide to perform cognitive testing or request an imaging test to rule out any other possible causes for their symptoms, like mood disorders, learning disabilities personality disorders, and substance abuse. People suffering from these disorders often present very differently from those who do not have them. For instance, boys are more likely to have hyperactive symptoms while girls exhibit inattention symptoms. Many people with ADHD are interested in taking part in a clinical trial to test new treatments. This is a fantastic chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the main objective of these studies is scientific knowledge and not necessarily an assurance of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet. Treatment If you suspect that you might have ADHD seek out a specialist who is qualified to recognize the disorder. Ask your health insurance provider for confirmation if ADHD specialists are covered. You may also ask your family doctor or other health professionals for recommendations. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option. A doctor will inquire with the patient – or parents in the case of children – about their symptoms. She may use standardized questionnaires or ADHD symptom checklists, and request information from other people in the person's life, like spouses and family members. Personal insight often uncovers more than what can be learned from questionnaires. An expert will also want to look over any documents that the person may have, including old school reports. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually dependent on the past of a person. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must have been present since the time of childhood (technically, before the age 12). A physical exam is also often performed. It's also examined for any other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, such seizures or thyroid problems. The doctor will usually conduct a neurological examination, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that measure the level of intelligence and ability can be utilized. In addition one could be asked to perform simple computer tasks that test attention and memory. This could assist an expert determine whether someone is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will choose a treatment plan and make a diagnosis. The typical treatment plan includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can teach adults and children healthy coping techniques and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy can be provided by a primary physician or a mental health specialist who is an expert in adult ADHD. Medication Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by 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 to cope and cope with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, which is a form of education on ADHD and ways to manage it, may be included. They can involve teachers, parents and other professionals. It is important to find a medical professional or mental health professional with experience treating ADHD. I Am Psychiatry can ask for recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or do an online search. It is best to locate a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan. To determine if your child has ADHD to determine the cause, a health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms and issues caused by them. They will perform physical examinations and check for any other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will go over the medical and family history of your child or you and also school records and other documents. Diagnosing ADHD in adults can be more difficult because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are mostly geared toward diagnosing children. Your doctor may interview you or your children about the symptoms and request that 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. ADHD medications include stimulants like methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomox, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Counseling Many people suffering from ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, including depression or anxiety. For this reason, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches abilities such as time and task management, emotional self-regulation and impulse control. Therapists can also help patients manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. Regular exercise can reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration. A healthy diet is crucial as well. People with ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar, and less fruits and vegetables. Also making relationships with family and friends an important factor can reduce stress levels and make people feel more in control of their lives. Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it provides adults and children an understanding awareness of their difficulties. A child with ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to their teachers or other peers. Once a teacher understands that this isn't an individual issue or due to laziness they can offer adjustments. A professional who conducts an ADHD evaluation will ask questions specific to the age of the person, talk to family members and teachers and review medical records and check for comorbid conditions. For adults, records from schools could help determine if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood. A physical exam is often included, and the expert will likely test for hearing and vision problems. The doctor could also conduct a blood test in order to test for certain hormones, as well as other health conditions which can cause symptoms and signs of ADHD.