BIPOLAR DISORDER
Overview about Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder, also known as maniac depression, brings extreme mood swings which include high and low moods and changes in sleep, energy, thinking, and behavior. People with bipolar disorders have extreme and intense emotional states that occur at distinct times, called mood episodes. These mood episodes are categorized as manic, hypomanic or depressive. People with this disorder generally have normal mood as well and they can be treated, and people with these illnesses can lead full and productive lives.
Types of Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a category that includes three different conditions. They are
- Bipolar I
- Bipolar II
- Cyclothymic disorder
Bipolar I
Bipolar I disorder can cause dramatic mood swings. This type of disorder is diagnosed when a person has a manic episode which lasts at least one week and depressive episodes last for two weeks.
Symptoms of maniac episodes are:
- Exaggerated self-esteem
- Insomnia
- Unusual talks (fast and loud)
- Low attention
- Increased risky behavior (e.g. reckless driving)
Appearance of maniac symptoms requires hospitalization. The average age for a first manic episode is 18, but it can start anytime from early childhood to later adulthood.
Bipolar II
Bipolar II disorder involves a person having at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode. Hypomaniac symptoms are similar to maniac symptoms but it is less severe than maniac. The person with depressive episode shows intense sadness, loss of interest in activities, sleeping troubles, changes in appetite, restlessness, lack of concentration, fatigue and frequent thoughts of suicide and death.
Cyclothymic disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is a milder form of bipolar disorder involving many mood swings, with hypomania and depressive symptoms.Most people with this condition only experience a month or two at a time where their moods are stable. People with cyclothymia experience emotional ups and downs, but with less severe symptoms than bipolar I or II disorders.
Causes
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but several factors may be involved, such as:
Biological differences
People with bipolar disorder appear to have physical changes in their brains. Abnormalities in the structure or functions of the brain may increase the risk.
Genetics
Bipolar disorder is more common in people who have a first-degree relative, such as a sibling or parent, with the condition. However, most people who have bipolar disorder in their family history don’t develop it.
Environmental factors
- Extreme stress
- Traumatic experiences
- Physical illness
Diagnosis
Diagnosing bipolar disorder requires extensive testing. A physician testing for the disorder will ask about the patient’s family history, looking for anyone else in the family who has the disorder. The physician will also ask about any mood swings experienced recently, and take a history of the mood swings including when they began. A medical history is also taken, which will include any other conditions that the patient may have and a list of all medications taken. The doctor will also supervise the individual’s mood for signs of mania and depression, as well as asking the patient’s family about any changes in behavior.
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
Medications:
- mood stabilizers, such as lithium
- anti-psychotics, such as olanzapine
- antidepressant – anti psychotics, such as fluoxetine-olanzapine
- benzodiazepines, a type of anti-anxiety medication such as alprazolam
Psychotherapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy – type of talk therapy which helps in alter the thinking and help in come up with positive coping strategies.
- Psycho education
- Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy
Other treatment options:
- electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
- sleep medications
- supplements
- acupuncture
Co-occurring conditions
Person with bipolar disorder might also need to be treated for the conditions such as :
- Anxiety disorders
- Eating disorders
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Alcohol or drug problems
- Physical health problems, such as heart disease, thyroid problems, headaches or obesity
Complications of Bipolar disorder
Untreated bipolar disorder can result in serious problems that affect every area of the life, such as:
- Problems related to drug and alcohol use
- Suicide or suicide attempts
- Legal or financial problems
- Damaged relationships
- Poor work or school performance
If anyone noticed with suicidal thoughts or attempts, depression, keeping themselves apart from others, alcohol or drug abuse, emotionless or often end up crying, seek out for help from the medical professionals as soon as possible since it is a treatable disorder.