Bipolar Disorder: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that is sometimes referred to as a manic depression. It causes extreme mood swings and emotional highs and lows. The episodes or mood swings can occur several times a week or just a few times a year. Bipolar disorder cannot be cured, but it can be managed.

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

The cause of the bipolar disorder is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by genetics and environmental factors. It may also be caused by a malfunction of the circuits in the brain and neurotransmitters. Noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine all help regulate moods and control thoughts. If these chemicals are not at the correct levels, the brain cannot function properly, and mental disorders can occur.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary by individual, and some people have more severe symptoms than others. The most common symptoms are episodes of mania and depression. Other symptoms of these episodes can include:

• Abnormal heartbeat
• Increased energy
• Euphoria
• Decreased need for sleep
• Unusual talkativeness
• Racing thoughts
• Distractibility
• Poor decision making
• Depression
• Loss of interest inactivity
• Insomnia
• Restlessness
• Fatigue
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Indecisiveness
• Suicidal thoughts

Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complex disease, and it can be hard to diagnose. In many cases, the doctor will do tests to confirm that the cause of the symptoms is not from another disease or health problem. Some of the most common tests that doctors use to diagnose bipolar disorder include:

• Physical exam: This test will help determine if a patient is otherwise healthy and help rule out any physical problems that may be causing the symptoms.
• Psychiatric assessment: During this test, a doctor will talk to the patient to get a good idea of how their personality and mind function. They may be asked to answer questions or engage in certain conversations.
• Mood charting: Doctors will ask the patient to keep track of their moods. The doctor will review the mood chart after a period of time to see if the mood changes are severe and sudden or if they are more natural.
• Bipolar criteria: There are certain criteria that people who have bipolar disorder meet. The doctor will compare the patient’s symptoms to the criteria to see if they match up.

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder treatments are based on the patient’s overall health and the severity of the disease. There is no cure for bipolar disorder, but treatments are effective. The most common treatments include:

• Oral medications: Oral medications are the most common treatment for bipolar disorder. They are focused on stabilizing moods and preventing mood swings.
• Therapy: Some people are able to manage their moods with therapy and counseling.
• Treatment for substance abuse: Many people who suffer from bipolar disorder also have substance abuse issues. Managing bipolar disorder while using drugs or alcohol can be difficult.
• Hospitalization: For patients who have severe mood swings or suicidal thoughts as a result of their bipolar disorder, hospitalization may be necessary.

Prognosis of Bipolar Disorder

People who receive treatment for their bipolar disorder and continue with it through their lives have a good prognosis. In some cases, medication will need to be changed or doses will need to be modified as time goes in order for it to remain effective.