3 Common Causes For Why Your ADHD Diagnose Isn't Working (And How To Fix It)

How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD

Many people believe that ADHD is a symptom only of children, however it can affect adults as well. Finding a doctor and treating ADHD can help improve the quality of life for a person.

A diagnosis for ADHD could involve a conversation with the patient and their family members. The specialist might review the school records from the past to determine whether the symptoms started in the early years of childhood.

Symptoms

ADHD is a condition that impacts school, work, and home life. Everyone struggles with concentration and staying organised from time to time. A person must exhibit major symptoms in two of these areas and that they significantly affect the daily functioning of the person for them to be identified as having ADHD. The symptoms must be present for at least six months.

To determine a diagnosis, doctors will talk to the patient regarding their symptoms and ask about their family history and medical conditions. They can also utilize rating scales that measure a adult's or child's symptoms. These questionnaires are often constructed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). They cover symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsive nature.

Adults might be asked to talk with their spouse or someone who knows them well. This isn't meant to challenge the authenticity of the person, but rather to gain more insight into a person's behavior that can't be gathered from the answers to a questionnaire. It is also possible to inquire about their childhood behavior and consult old school records to see whether the signs started before the age of 12.

Before determining the cause, the doctor will conduct an extensive physical exam and run tests in the lab to rule out other conditions like thyroid problems or head injuries that could cause 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 issues. It's important that adults talk with their primary healthcare provider in the event that they suspect they be suffering from ADHD.

Diagnosis

To be diagnosed with ADHD symptoms must manifest in two or more settings (like school, home, and at work) and significantly interfere with functioning. The symptoms must be evident before the age of 12 and cannot be caused by another disorder such as anxiety or depression.

A mental health professional uses different tools to assess the patient, such as ADHD symptoms lists and standardized scales for assessing behaviour and a thorough medical history. They might also talk to family members or friends to determine how the symptoms affect them. They can also inquire if there are any other physical or mental conditions that have similar symptoms.

The evaluators will consider whether the symptoms are mild moderate, severe or even mild. They will also review the medical history of the patient and family history to ensure there isn't any underlying cause of their problems like thyroid disorders or head injuries, or medications.

In certain instances the evaluator may want to conduct a cognitive test or request that the person take an imaging test to rule out other causes of their symptoms like learning disabilities. People with these issues often appear differently than those who do not have these issues. For example, boys tend to exhibit hyperactivity symptoms, whereas girls show inattention symptoms.

Many people with ADHD would like to participate in studies to test new treatments. While this is a great opportunity to contribute to further research, it's important for participants to know that the primary purpose of these studies is to increase information from the scientific community and does not necessarily guarantee they will receive treatment. For more information on clinical trials, please visit NIMH's Clinical Trials fact sheet.

Treatment

If you suspect they have ADHD It is essential to find a professional who is experienced in diagnosing the disorder. Check with your health insurance provider to determine if ADHD specialists are covered, and then seek referrals from family doctors or other health professionals. Word-of-mouth recommendations are also a good option.

A doctor will speak with the patient -- or their parents, in the case of children -- about their symptoms. She may use standardized checklists or ADHD symptoms, and also ask other people in a person's life for information including spouses and families. Personal insight can reveal more than can be gleaned from questionnaires.

A professional will also want to look over any documents that the person may have, particularly old school reports.  adhd diagnosis in adults  of ADHD is determined by the history of a person and, to be diagnosed with the condition, the symptoms must be present from childhood (technically prior to the age of 12).

A physical exam is also performed. It is a way to identify any other medical problems that could be the cause of the symptoms, for example, seizure disorders or thyroid problems. A neurological examination is often carried out by an expert to assess the coordination and motor control. Psychological tests that test the ability to think and be smart could also be used. The test subject may also be asked to complete simple computer tasks designed to test attention and memory. This could assist an expert determine whether the person is hyperactive or not. The expert will then determine the diagnosis and suggest treatment. Treatment plans typically include medication and therapy. Talk therapy or psychotherapy can help adults and children learn healthy ways to cope and change negative thinking patterns. This therapy is offered by a primary doctor or a mental health professional who is a specialist in adult ADHD.

Medication

Many people with ADHD are helped by medication. However, this is not the only way to treat the condition. Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy or a combination can be beneficial to teenagers, children, and adults. These therapies aid them in coping and learn to live with their ADHD symptoms. Psychoeducation, or education on ADHD and ways to manage it, could be incorporated. They may involve teachers, family members, and other professionals.

It is essential to locate a health care provider or mental health professional who has expertise in treating ADHD. You can request suggestions from others who suffer from ADHD or from a mental health provider you already know, or perform an online search. It is essential to find a doctor who is familiar with your insurance.

To determine if your child has ADHD, the health care provider will ask about your or your child's symptoms as well as the problems caused by the condition. They will conduct physical examinations and check for any other health conditions that may trigger similar symptoms. They will review the medical and family history of your child or you along with school records and other reports.

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 doctor may interview you or your children about their symptoms and have other people who spend lots of time with them to 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 such as methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine as well as non-stimulants like atomoxetine and certain antidepressants. They work by boosting and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Counseling

Many people with ADHD also suffer from comorbid disorders, like anxiety or depression. For this reason, treatment should include therapy that targets these issues. Certain patients could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches skills like time and task control, emotional self-regulation and impulse control.

Therapists can help patients manage their symptoms by altering their lifestyle. Regular exercise can help reduce hyperactivity and improve focus. A healthy diet is crucial as well. People who suffer from ADHD tend to consume more fat and sugar and less fruit and vegetables. Making family and social relationships priority can help reduce stress and make individuals feel more in control of their lives.

Another benefit of an ADHD diagnosis is that it can give children and adults a clearer comprehension of their issues. For example, a child who has ADHD may have trouble communicating his or her needs to teachers and peers, but once a teacher understands that it's not due to inattention, accommodations can be implemented.

A professional who evaluates ADHD will ask questions geared to the person's age, speak with family and teachers, review medical records, and look for any comorbidities. For adults, records from schools could help determine if the ADHD symptoms began before adulthood.

The expert will also check for any vision or hearing issues with hearing or vision. They may also conduct an analysis of blood to look for certain hormones as well as other health issues that may cause symptoms similar to ADHD.