Diagnosing ADHD

Many adults don't know that they have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). They face many problems in their personal and professional lives. Staying focused, productive, and organized is a challenge. A diagnosis can bring peace of		Symptoms of ADHD Treating ADHD Questions to ask your doctor

mind to adults with ADHD. They can begin to get the treatment they need to feel better.

In adults, ADHD is sometimes called simply Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). This is because hyperactivity is less common. In fact, up to 90% of adults with ADHD have attention problems.

Diagnosing ADHD in adults takes several steps. If you might have ADHD, your doctor will perform a complete physical exam. The doctor will ask about your work, home, and childhood. The doctor may want to talk to your parents, spouse, or children. The doctor may use a test or rating scale. This helps to make sure that your symptoms are from ADHD and not some other condition.

For adults, a diagnosis of ADHD involves:

• Current symptoms need to have been seen first in childhood
• Problems are present in 2 or more settings, such as at home and at work
• A medical exam, a patient history, and a series of tests are done, including childhood behavior, psychological, and educational tests
• Interviews with the patient, close relatives, and friends are usually done by a healthcare professional—preferably an expert in adult ADHD

Some doctors do not have experience treating adults with ADHD. Do some research. Make sure you find a doctor who has treated many other adults with ADHD.