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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 improve the quality of life of a person. An evaluation for ADHD may involve interviewing the person and family members. The specialist could review old school records to determine whether symptoms began as when a child. Symptoms Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying organized from time-to-time, but for someone who suffers from ADHD the issues can be a hindrance with work, school and even home life. To be considered to have the disorder, someone 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. A doctor will inquire of the patient about his or her symptoms, as well as about any medical issues and family history. They may also use rating scales that measure a child's or adult's symptoms. These questionnaires are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). These questionnaires ask regarding symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature. Adults might be asked to talk with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This is not a way to doubt the patient's honesty but to gain a better understanding of their behavior that cannot be obtained from the answers to a questionnaire. They could inquire about their childhood behaviors and consult old school records to determine whether symptoms began before the age of 12. Before determining the cause, the doctor will perform an extensive physical exam and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions like thyroid problems or head injuries that could trigger similar symptoms. The doctor will also look over a person's medication list. Doctors will take into consideration the interaction between stimulants and certain medications prescribed for depression, high blood pressure, and other ailments. This is why it's essential for adults to talk to their primary care physicians if they think they might have ADHD. Diagnosis For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must be present in more than one setting (like home, school and work) and have a significant impact on functioning. They should also have been diagnosed before the age of 12, and the impairment must not be due to another disorder, such as depression or anxiety. A doctor or mental health professional will employ a variety tools during the assessment which include ADHD symptoms checklists, standardized behavior rating scales and a detailed medical history. They may also interview family members or friends to learn how the symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire whether the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric disorders or physical conditions. Evaluators will take into account whether symptoms are mild, moderate or severe. They will also look into the patient's medical and family background to determine if there is any root causes behind their condition for example, thyroid disorders or head injuries. In some instances the examiner may decide to conduct cognitive testing or request the person undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms such as learning disabilities. People who suffer from these issues typically present differently than those who do not have them. Iampsychiatry tend to display hyperactive symptoms, while girls display inattentional symptoms. Some people with ADHD are interested in participating in a clinical study to try out new treatments. While this is a great method to aid in further research, it is crucial for participants to know that the primary purpose of these studies is to acquire knowledge in the field of science and cannot necessarily ensure that they will receive treatment. Visit the NIMH's Clinical Trials Fact Sheet for more details about clinical trials. Treatment If you suspect you may have ADHD seek out a specialist who is certified to identify the disorder. Make sure to check with your health insurance provider to see whether ADHD specialists are covered. You can also seek referrals from family doctors or other health care professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a good alternative. A doctor will ask the patient or their parents in the case of children – about the symptoms they experience. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask others in the person's life for information like their spouses and their families. Personal insight can reveal more than what can be learned from questionnaires. Experts will also review any old school records and reports, particularly those from the past. The diagnosis of ADHD is usually based on the history of an individual. To be considered diagnosed the symptoms must have been present since the age of a child (technically before age 12). A physical exam is often performed. It checks for other medical conditions that may be causing symptoms, like seizures or thyroid issues. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological examination, that checks for motor control and coordination. Psychological tests, designed to measure intelligence and ability, might be utilized too. A person may be required to perform simple computer tasks to test attention and memory. This can help the expert determine if a person is hyperactive, inattentive or impulsive. The expert will choose the best treatment plan and then make an assessment. Treatment plans typically include medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy can teach adults as well as children healthy coping techniques and change unhelpful thinking patterns. The therapy can be conducted by the primary care physician or a mental health professional who specializes in adult ADHD. Medication Many people suffering from ADHD improve by taking medication. However, this is not the only method of treating the condition. Children, teenagers and adults can also benefit from psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or any combination of the two. These therapies help them cope with their ADHD symptoms and learn to manage the symptoms. They can include psychoeducation, which is an education about ADHD and methods to manage it. They can include teachers, family members and professionals. It is important to find a health care provider or mental health professional with expertise in treating ADHD. You can ask others who suffer from ADHD for recommendations or a mental healthcare practitioner you trust. You can also conduct an internet search. It is recommended to find a specialist who is familiar with your insurance plan. To determine if your child has ADHD to determine the cause, a health care professional will inquire about your or your child's symptoms and issues caused by the condition. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for other health problems that may cause similar symptoms. They will go over your or your child's medical history and family history, school records and other reports. Finding out if you have ADHD in adults can be trickier 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 request that other people who spend lots of time with them 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 the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and atomoxe, as well nonstimulants such atomoxetine and antidepressants. They work by boosting levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Counseling Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, like anxiety or depression. Therefore, treatment should include therapy that addresses these issues. Some patients can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy, which teaches skills like time and task management and emotional self-regulation. In addition, therapists can help patients learn to manage their symptoms by making lifestyle changes. For example exercising regularly can reduce hyperactivity and increase concentration. A healthy diet is crucial too. People with ADHD tend eat more sugar and fat, and less fruit and vegetables. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce stress and help people feel more in control of their lives. Another big benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it gives adults and children a better understanding of their challenges. A child with ADHD may have trouble communicating their needs to teachers or peers. Once a teacher realizes that this is not an issue that is solely because of a lack of time, they can make adjustments. A professional conducting an ADHD assessment will ask questions geared toward the person's age, interview teachers and family members, review medical records, and look for comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms first started before age school records could be useful for adults. A physical exam is typically included, and the expert will likely test for hearing and vision issues. They may also perform a blood test to check for certain hormones and other health conditions that can cause ADHD-like symptoms.