INFORMATION ON BIPOLAR DISORDER
Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric diagnostic category describing a class of mood disorders in which the person experiences clinical depression and/or mania, hypomania, and/or mixed states. The illness tends to run in families and appears to have a genetic link. People suffering from the disorder may be periodically disabled, but many live full and productive lives whether or not they receive adequate treatment. The disorder causes great distress among those afflicted and those living closely with them. Bipolar disorder affects more than two million adult Americans.An equal number of men and women develop this illness and it is found among all ages, races, ethnic groups and social classes. Like depression and other serious illnesses, bipolar disorder can also negatively affect spouses and partners, family members, friends and coworkers.SYNONYMS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER
Synonyms and related keywords:1. Bipolar affective disorder.
2. Manic-depressive disorder.
3. Schizophrenia.
4. Mood disorders.
5. Electroconvulsive therapy.
CAUSES OF BIPOLAR DISORDER
Main cause of bipolar disorder has not been discovered, but there are significant genetic components. Bipolar disorder may result from a chemical imbalance within the brain. Scientists believe that bipolar disorder may also be a result of premature death of brain cells that deal with mood and emotion. This causes the brain to lose control of mood. Certain drugs, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, can trigger bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder may be caused by severe emotional stress at some time in life. A viral infection may bring on the disease.SYMPTOMS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER
Symptoms of bipolar disorder may include:1. Increased physical and mental activity and energy.
2. Heightened mood, exaggerated optimism and self-confidence.
3. Unexplained aches and pains.
4. Recurring thoughts of death or suicide.
5. Excessive irritability, aggressive behavior.
6. Impulsiveness, poor judgment, distractibility.
7. Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety.
8. Pessimism, indifference.
9. Loss of energy, persistent lethargy.
10. Feelings of guilt, worthlessness.
11. Reckless behavior.
12. In the most severe cases, delusions and hallucinations.
13. Prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells.
14. Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns.
15. Inability to concentrate, indecisiveness.
16. Inability to take pleasure in former interests, social withdrawal.
DIAGNOSIS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER
Specialists offer such diagnose bipolar disorder:Psychiatric questionnaires, both oral and written.
Medical exam, to check for other possible causes of the mood swings.
Thyroid disorders, in particular, can cause mood swings.
Medical history. Medications used to treat other conditions may cause mood swings, as can vitamin deficiencies.
Talk to family members and friends about your moods and behaviors. Often, others are the best at describing the behaviors of a person with bipolar disorder.
Discuss any family history of mood disorders.
