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How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD Many people believe ADHD is a child's condition, but it can also affect adults. Getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD can improve the quality of life of a person. Interviewing the person and their family members could be part of an evaluation for ADHD. The doctor may also review the school records of the past to determine if symptoms began as an infant. Signs and symptoms Everyone has trouble concentrating and staying well-organized from time to time However, for those who suffers from ADHD, these problems interfere with school, work and home life. To be considered to have the disorder, someone must have major symptoms in at least two of these areas and demonstrate that the symptoms significantly impair everyday functioning. The symptoms must have also been present for a minimum of six months. To determine a diagnosis, a doctor will interview the patient about their symptoms and inquire about family medical history and any medical issues. They can also use rating systems to assess symptoms in adults or children. These questionnaires are based off of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They include questions about symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and the tendency to be impulsive. Adults might be asked to talk to their significant other or someone who knows them well. This isn't meant to challenge the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain insight into the person's behavior that cannot be gathered from an interview. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior and consult old school records to determine whether the signs started before age 12. Before determining a diagnosis the doctor will perform an examination and lab tests to rule out any other health conditions, such as thyroid issues or head injuries that can cause similar symptoms. The doctor will also go over the medication list of a patient. Doctors will look at the interactions between stimulants and medications prescribed for depression, high-blood pressure, and other ailments. This is why it's important for adults to talk to their primary healthcare providers when they suspect they have ADHD. Diagnosis For a person to be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must occur in more than one setting (like school, home and at work) and seriously hinder functioning. They also must have begun before age 12, and the impairment must not be due to another disorder, such as anxiety or depression. A mental health professional will employ different tools to assess the patient, including ADHD symptoms lists as well as standardized scales of behaviour and a thorough medical history. They may interview friends and family members to determine how the individual's symptoms have affected them. They'll inquire if the symptoms are similar to other psychiatric disorders or physical ailments. The evaluators will decide if the symptoms are severe or mild. They will also look into the person's medical and family history to determine if there are any root causes behind their condition for example, thyroid problems or head injuries. In certain instances an evaluator might decide to conduct a cognitive test or ask the person to undergo an imaging test to rule out other causes for their symptoms, such as mood disorders, learning disabilities, personality disorders and alcohol abuse. These people often present differently than those without these problems. For example, boys tend to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls exhibit inattention symptoms. Many people with ADHD would like to participate in an experiment in order to test out new treatments. This is an excellent chance to conduct further research. However, participants should be aware that the main objective of these studies is to gain scientific knowledge, not the guarantee of treatment. For more information on clinical trials, check out NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet. Treatment If you suspect they may have ADHD, it's important to find an expert trained in diagnosing the disorder. Contact your health insurance provider to determine if ADHD specialists are covered, and seek out referrals from family doctors or other health care providers. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a good alternative. getting diagnosed with adhd will ask the patient – or parents in the case of children – about their symptoms. They may use checklists that are standard or ADHD symptoms, and may also ask other people in a person's life for details including spouses and families. Personal insight can reveal more than what can be gleaned 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 determined by the history of a person and, in order to be able to identify the condition, symptoms must be present from the age of a child (technically before age 12). A physical exam is also typically performed. It's also a way to check for other medical conditions that could cause symptoms, like seizures or thyroid problems. The specialist will typically conduct a neurological exam, which tests for coordination and motor control. Psychological tests, designed to test the ability and intelligence of a person, could be used as well. The test subject may be required to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This could help an expert determine whether someone is hyperactive or inattentive. The expert will then determine the diagnosis and recommend treatment. The treatment typically includes medication and therapy. Psychotherapy or talk therapy can aid children and adults in learning healthy coping strategies and alter destructive thought patterns. The therapy can be conducted by a primary care physician, or a mental health professional who is specialized in adult ADHD. Medication Many people suffering from ADHD get better by taking medication. However this isn't the only way to treat the condition. Adults, teenagers and children are also able to benefit from behavioral therapy, psychotherapy or a combination of both. These therapies assist them to cope and live with their ADHD symptoms. They may also include psychoeducation, which is a form of education about ADHD and ways to manage it. They can involve family members, teachers and other professionals. It is essential to locate a health care provider or mental health professional with experience treating ADHD. You can ask other people 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. The doctor will inquire with you or your child about symptoms and problems that are caused by ADHD. They will conduct an examination of the body and look for other health issues that could cause similar symptoms. They will look over the medical and family history of your child or you along with school documents and other reports. The American Psychiatric Association's (DSM-V) that is primarily geared towards diagnosing children is more difficult diagnosis of ADHD in adults. Your health care provider will talk to you or your child about their symptoms, and may ask 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. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine or certain antidepressants. They work by increasing and balancing levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Counseling Many people suffering from ADHD have co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. Because of this, treatment should be based on therapy that targets these issues. Some patients may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps develop skills like time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control. Therapists can also help patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthier diet is also crucial for people with ADHD tend to consume higher levels of sugar and fat and consume less vegetables and fruits than other people. In addition making social and family relationships a priority can lower 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 children and adults a clearer understanding of their challenges. A child suffering from ADHD might have difficulty communicating their demands to their teachers or friends. Once a teacher understands that this is not an individual issue or because of their inability to communicate, they can make accommodations. A professional who is evaluating ADHD will ask questions that are targeted to the person's age, interview family and teachers, read medical records, and check for any comorbidities. If ADHD symptoms started before adulthood school records could be useful for adults. A physical exam is typically included, and the specialist will likely look for hearing and vision problems. He or she might also conduct a blood test in order to test for certain hormones, and other health issues that could cause ADHD-like signs and symptoms.