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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 too. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can help improve the quality of life for a person. Interviewing the person and their family members could be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The doctor may also look over old school records in order to determine if the symptoms started as a child. Signs and symptoms Everyone struggles with concentration and staying well-organized from time to time, but for someone who has ADHD this can cause problems with school, work and home life. To be diagnosed with the disorder, someone must exhibit severe symptoms in at least two of these areas, and prove that the symptoms significantly affect daily functioning. The symptoms must also have been present for at least six months. A doctor will inquire with the patient about their symptoms, as well as about any medical concerns and family history. They may also use rating scales that measure a adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are usually constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. For adults, doctors might request a conversation with an intimate partner or others who know the patient. This is not meant to challenge the patient's honesty, but rather to gain more insight about their behavior that isn't gained from an interview. They might inquire about childhood behavior and refer to the old school records to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12. Before making a diagnosis the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run tests in order to rule other ailments for thyroid issues or head injuries that could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also review the patient's list of medications. Doctors will consider the interaction between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other conditions. This is the reason it's crucial for adults to talk to their primary care providers when they suspect they be suffering from ADHD. Diagnosis For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in at least two or more environments (like home, school and at work) and have a significant impact on functioning. They must also have started before age 12, and the impairment can't be caused by another disorder, like anxiety or depression. A mental health professional will use various tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour and a thorough medical history. They may interview family members and friends to see how the person's symptoms have affected them. They will ask if the symptoms are similar to those of other psychiatric conditions or physical ailments. The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also review the patient's medical and family background to determine if there are root causes behind their condition, such as thyroid issues or head injuries. In certain instances the examiner may decide to conduct a cognitive test or request the person take an imaging test in order to rule out other causes of their symptoms such as learning disabilities. These people often present differently than those who do not have these issues. For instance, boys tend to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms. Many people with ADHD are interested in participating in studies to try out new treatments. While this is a great way to help further research, it is crucial for participants to understand that the main purpose of these studies is to acquire scientific knowledge and do not necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more information on clinical trials. Treatment For a person who suspects they have ADHD, it's important to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to find out if ADHD specialists are covered. You can also seek referrals from family doctors or other health professionals. Also, word-of-mouth referrals are a great option. A doctor will talk to the patient — or their parents, in children's cases — about their symptoms. I Am Psychiatry may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and ask other people in a person's life for information including spouses and their families. Personal insight will reveal more than can be learned from questionnaires. A specialist will also need to look over any documents the person might have, particularly 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 be present from the age of a child (technically prior to age 12). A physical exam is usually done. It is a way to identify any other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, like thyroid problems or seizure disorders. A neurological examination is often performed by a specialist to test motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, which are designed to test intelligence and ability, might be used as well. The test subject may also be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This can help an expert determine if a person is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will then decide on a diagnosis and recommend treatment. Treatment plans typically include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping strategies and change unhelpful thinking patterns. This therapy is offered by a primary physician or a mental health professional who is an expert in adult ADHD. Medication Many people suffering from ADHD are helped by medication, but it's not the only option to treat the condition. Children, teenagers and adults are also able to benefit from a psychotherapy session, behavioral therapy or the combination of both. These therapies aid them in dealing with their ADHD symptoms and help them learn to manage the symptoms. They may include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can involve teachers, parents and other professionals. It is essential to find an expert in mental health or health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can request recommendations from people who have ADHD or from a mental health professional you already know, or do an online search. It is essential to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance. The doctor will inquire with you or your child about the signs and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will perform an examination of the body and look for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you and also school records and other reports. The process of diagnosing ADHD in adults can be trickier because the Symptom Guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V) are primarily designed to diagnose children. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child about their symptoms and may also request other people who spend many hours with them to complete 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. The drugs used to treat ADHD include stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. Counseling Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, such as anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Certain patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy which teaches techniques such as managing time and tasks and emotional self-regulation. Therapists can help patients to manage their symptoms by changing their lifestyle. For instance an exercise routine that is regularly practiced can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthy diet is essential for those with ADHD tend to consume more sugar and fat and less vegetables and fruits than the rest of us. In addition, making relationships with family and friends an important factor can reduce stress levels and allow people to feel more in control of their lives. Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give adults and children an understanding comprehension of their issues. For instance, a child suffering from ADHD may have trouble communicating their demands to peers and teachers however, once a teacher is aware that it's not due to a lack of motivation, accommodations can be provided. A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are targeted to the person's age, interview family and teachers, look over medical records, and look for any comorbidities. For adults, records from schools could be helpful in determining if the ADHD symptoms started before the age of adulthood. The expert will also check for any hearing or vision issues with hearing or vision. They may also do tests on the blood to determine the presence of certain hormones as well as other health conditions that can cause symptoms of ADHD.