Introduction
The term bipolar disorder is used to describe a group of mental disorders that are characterized by mood swings from periods of extreme happiness or elation (mania) to periods of extreme sadness, irritability, anxiety, and sometimes psychosis (depression). These episodes may last for days, weeks, months, or even years at a time. The symptoms can be so severe and it can be diagnosed by best psychiatrist in Lahore.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that causes recurring episodes of depression and mania. During manic episodes, patients experience an abnormally elevated level of energy, decreased need for sleep, increased talkativeness, racing thoughts, and grandiosity. They also have trouble concentrating and making decisions. Mania is not as dangerous as it sounds because most people do not commit suicide while experiencing this type of episode. However, if left untreated, manic episodes can lead to more serious problems such as substance abuse, hospitalization, and divorce. Depression is the opposite of mania; it involves feelings of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, fatigue, and loss of interest in daily activities. Patients who suffer from depression tend to withdraw from social situations and lose interest in hobbies and pastimes.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Symptoms of bipolar disorder vary greatly among individuals. Some people experience only one episode of mania or depression per year, whereas others experience several episodes each month. People with bipolar disorder often feel depressed before the first manic episode occurs. This is called hypomania. Other times, however, the first sign of the bipolar disorder is a full-blown manic episode. In between these two extremes, many people experience milder forms of depression or mania.
How Common Is Bipolar Disorder?
Although bipolar disorder is relatively common, there is still much we don’t know about it. Researchers estimate that up to 2 percent of all Americans will develop bipolar disorder at some point in their lives. That means that every person you meet has a chance of having bipolar disorder. If someone close to you has bipolar disorder, he or she probably knows how to recognize the signs of the illness.
Who Gets Bipolar Disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t clear. But researchers believe that genetics play a role. Studies show that children whose parents have bipolar disorder are more likely than average to develop the disease themselves. Also, certain genes seem to make people more susceptible to developing bipolar disorder.
How Do I Know if My Child Has Bipolar Disorder?
If your child shows any of the following behaviors, it’s possible that he or she has bipolar disorder:
• Mood changes that occur suddenly and without warning
• Irritable behavior
• Impulsivity
• Poor judgment
• Unusual patterns of sleeping and eating
• Increased activity levels
• Decreased activity levels
• Changes in school performance
• Feeling sad or anxious for no apparent reason
• Acting reckless or engaging in risky behavior
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts
• Substance abuse
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Problems with concentration or memory
• Difficulty controlling anger
• Talking excessively
• Spending money recklessly
• Being overly critical of self or others
• Having frequent
What is difference between Bipolar Disorder and teenage anger?
There are differences between teenage anger and bipolar disorder. Teenagers may get angry when they are frustrated by something that doesn’t work out the way they want. When teenagers become angry, they usually express their frustration through words rather than actions. They might yell, throw things, hit objects, or even punch walls. These types of reactions are normal during adolescence. However, if a teenager becomes angry over and over again, this could be a symptom of bipolar disorder.
Can You Get Bipolar Disorder as an Adult?
Yes, you can get bipolar disorder as an adult. Many adults who had childhood bipolar disorder continue to suffer from symptoms of the illness into adulthood. Adults who were diagnosed with bipolar disorder as children may not realize that they have the condition until they reach middle age.
Is There Treatment for Bipolar Disorder?
Yes, there is treatment for bipolar disorder. The goal of treatment is to help patients manage their moods so that they aren’t overwhelmed by them. Medications are used to treat both manic and depressive episodes. Psychotherapy (counseling) helps patients learn ways to cope with stress and other problems that trigger mood swings. In addition, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise can improve overall health and reduce the risk of future mood episodes.
Does Bipolar Disorder Cause Suicide?
No, suicide is never caused by bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder do sometimes attempt suicide, but these attempts are often related to depression. If someone tries to commit suicide because of bipolar disorder, it is called suicidal ideation. It is important to know that most people who try to kill themselves don’t actually succeed.
Are Children at Risk for Developing Bipolar Disorder?
Children are more likely to develop bipolar disorder than adults. This is because the brain continues to grow and change throughout life. As a result, some parts of the brain mature earlier than others. For example, the frontal lobe, which controls emotions, develops last. Therefore, children are more vulnerable to developing bipolar disorder because their brains haven’t fully developed yet.
How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?
A doctor will diagnose bipolar disorder based on information about your medical history, physical exam, and mental status examination. Your doctor also may order blood tests, urine tests, and/or imaging studies (such as CT scans and MRIs). A psychiatrist will conduct a psychiatric evaluation to determine whether you meet the criteria for bipolar disorder.
What is the difference between mania and hypomania?
Mania is characterized by extreme highs in energy and activity levels. Hypomania is less severe than mania and involves periods of elevated mood without any major impairment in functioning.
What causes bipolar disorder?
There are many factors that contribute to the development of bipolar disorder. Genetics play a role in determining whether a person has bipolar disorder.
How much types of bipolar disorder?
The two main forms of bipolar disorder are:
• Manic-depressive disorder – This form of bipolar disorder occurs when a patient experiences both manic and depressive episodes simultaneously or alternately.
• Cyclothymic disorder – This type of bipolar disorder is marked by recurrent episodes of depression alternating with episodes of hypomania.
Can bipolar disorder be treated?
Yes, bipolar disorder can be successfully managed. The goal of treatment for bipolar disorder is to help patients manage moods so that they’re not overwhelmed by them. Medication is used to treat both manic episodes and depressive episodes. Psychotherapies (counseling), including cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, and family counseling, are used to help patients learn how to cope with stress and problems that trigger mood swings, such as relationship issues, job loss, financial difficulties, and illness in the family. Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, can improve overall health and decrease the risk of future mood disorders.
What medications are used to treat bipolar disorder?
Medications used to treat bipolar disorder include antidepressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, lithium, and other drugs. Antidepressants are usually prescribed first if you have symptoms of depression. Lithium is typically used to treat acute manic episodes. Other medications are used to prevent manic episodes from occurring.
Conclusion
Bipolar disorder is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s important to seek professional help to get psychiatric services early in the course of the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the severity of symptoms and help patients lead productive lives.