Tests for ADD in Adults

Diagnosing attention deficit disorder, or ADD, in adults needs to be thorough and comprehensive to obtain a proper diagnosis. Early childhood behaviors, coupled with other comprehensive testing, are used to help diagnose ADD in adults. As with many diseases, accurate testing include ruling out other diseases that may mimic ADD symptoms. The symptoms of ADD can be annoying or even life-crippling.

• ADD Symptoms Begin in Adolescence

Childhood Symptoms Pertinent in Diagnosing Adult ADD

• According to Dr. David B Sudderth, author of "Adult ADD The Complete Handbook," one of the two major behavior abnormalities must have been present during the childhood years for more than six consecutive months of the prospective ADD patient's life in order to aid in the correct diagnosing of ADD in adults.

  The first criterion is labeled as inattention. Doctors go through a comprehensive diagnosis to see if the patient has a childhood history of certain factors that can be labeled as inattention, such as the inability to follow instructions through, losing necessary tools that are needed to perform everyday activities, or is regularly forgetful in everyday activities.

  The second criterion has to do with the behavioral issues that deal directly with hyperactivity or impulsivity. Constant fidgeting and difficulties waiting patiently to respond to a question or stand in line are examples of hyperactive and impulsive behavior.

  It's important the behavior issues described above need to be present before the age of seven. Other key factors include behavioral issues in more than one area of life, for example work and home. It is necessary to conclude that any behavioral issues are not directly related to mental or personality disorders, and that the disturbances cause severe complications in social facets.

Neuropsychological Testing for ADD in Adults

• Besides conducting a thorough childhood history of the suspected adult ADD sufferer, neuropsychological testing is also done in adults who are believed to be suffering from ADD. The Wender Utah Rating Scale is a questionnaire study that once again sheds some light on the childhood behavior of suspected adult ADD patients. Other questioners are designed specifically for adults and how their behavior affects their current life, per the American Journal of Psychiatry.

Diseases that Mimic ADD

• Symptoms of some diseases can mimic the symptoms of ADD, leading to an inaccurate diagnosis, according to Dr. Sudderth. Some symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder mirror those of ADD. Certain neurological illnesses, such as frontal lobe disease and epilepsy can have overlapping symptoms as well. A childhood history evaluation is imperative to conclude that symptoms have been present from a young age.

Conventional Treatments for Adult ADD

• After a diagnosis is determined most physicians prescribe traditional medications, such as Ritalin, Dexedrine, Adderall and Cylert, the most popular ADD drugs, per Dr. Sudderth. In certain situations, the diagnosing physician may chose to prescribe an antidepressant, such as Tofranil, Elavil, Paxil or Effexor, which have proven to be effective in many ADD sufferers. Other more non-conventional treatments include introducing antihypertensive medications to the patient, such as beta blockers, or even anticonvulsants (Depakote or Tegretol).

Alternative Treatments and Therapies for ADD

• When a physician or patient is reluctant to engage in prescriptive therapy, other options are available. According to Dr. Sudderth, psychotherapy, group-therapy, and biofeedback can help provide positive feedback to the patients. Other non-traditional therapies can include diet intervention, vitamin and mineral supplements and kinesiology.

  Non-traditional medications, such as ginkgo, ginseng, or green tea, are touted for having certain healing effects. Although some people choose to include these forms of supplements when treating ADD, more studies are needed to determine their effectiveness.