Bipolar Disorder And Its Ramifications
Is it enough being healthy and wealthy and maybe even wise? Well, for most maybe, but if you are afflicted mentally, especially with a disease called Bipolar Disorder, it is just not enough. People affected with this disease find it so difficult to live a normal life and just going through each day is very often just not possible without medication.
Brain disorders can come in various forms and the manifestations of each physically can vary greatly. Some affect movement, some affect speech, some memory and some your moods and the way you feel. With bipolar disorder, the emotions and moods get affected so you can imagine what havoc it plays with your life.
The sad part is that you always feel you are not in full control of the way you feel. There are swings from the manic to the depressive and it is almost like someone else is managing your emotions like a puppeteer. There are two kinds of bipolar disorders.
When a person who suffers from it goes through the mania phase, he could be euphoric one moment and down in the dumps the next. This kind of a seesaw and increased mental energy also means that sleep patterns are disturbed and the mind is a screeching whirl of different thoughts. Unfortunately, people who suffer from this rarely feel that there is anything wrong with them and therefore it is usually a long time before they submit to going to a physician. This is cause for worry because their thoughts often turn to death and in the worst case scenario, to suicide.
Most of these people have a social acceptability problem and find it difficult to maintain good relations with family and anyone who they can be close to. They tend to be loners, preferring their own company to that of others. If they are in a group, they act like they know best and there is a bullying tendency in most of them. Concentration for a length of time is almost impossible and the condition needs care and medication. So even daily tasks become a problem.
One has got to face the fact that bipolar disorder has no cure. However, what can't be cured need not be endured because modern medication together with therapy can manage the disease with a great deal of efficiency. One must realize that it is a lifetime disease but with care and good management, it can be dealt with. Unfortunately, it takes quite a while to diagnose it as it is not obvious from a physical examination not even a CT scan or an X-ray one needs to observe the symptoms to make the right diagnosis.
It's all a matter of management when it comes to bipolar disorder care coupled with medication and therapy can work wonders towards helping the person live an almost normal life.
The Episodes And Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder
At some point of time, everyone experiences mood highs and lows. These are normal for normal people but for those suffering from bipolar disease these highs and lows can vary from one extreme to another. This very high and very low mood swings can hamper daily life and living and it can become dangerous. There are days when no work gets done because the person is feeling depressed. The next day there is so much energy that the person goes into over drive mode. This hyper energy and creativity can be misinterpreted as being reckless or even uncontrolled.
It is a fact that a person suffering from bipolar disease can be unpredictable and confusing. The condition of bipolar disease is also chronic. If you suffer from this, don't feel embarrassed about it. You can manage your problem effectively if you learn what it's all about and how you can look after yourself.
A person is said to be suffering from bipolar disorder when they experience different moods within a normal period of time. This problem is also termed as manic depression. Bipolar means two poles of emotions at extreme ends of the spectrum. Those affected will experience mood swings from very high to very low in quick succession or maybe in a span of a day depending on the severity of the affliction.
A good analogy to explain this would be the planet earth itself which has two poles - the North Pole and the South Pole. The mania phase or extreme high would be the North Pole and the depression would be South Pole. If either of these phases goes on for a certain amount of time then it is termed as an episode. You must discuss these episodes in depth with your healthcare provider.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, there are four types of episodes that are identified with bipolar disorder.
The first episode is Depression where the person will feel sad for a really long time. Normal activities are difficult like getting out of bed, eating or drinking and other things that are normally enjoyed. The second is Mania where it starts is with a laugh or feel- good mood and the happy mood changes to becoming irritable and angry. It is easy to do risky things in this phase. The third is Hypomania which is a milder form of Mania. It starts with the person feeling satisfied and happy with things being done and it degenerates into depression at a very fast rate. The last episode is described as a Mixed Episode or Mood.
These episodes are dangerous because the person is at risk of being suicidal as well. If there are more than four episodes of depression or mania within a year then it is termed as rapid cycling. Symptoms for the two poles of bipolar depression differ from each other.
Under mania, the symptoms would include more energy, less need for sleep, a restless mind, quick to get distracted, racing thoughts and very talkative and confident but not much work gets done despite better concentration and overall, this is more risky if things appear to be going bad.
When depressed, the person feels sad, loses interest in normal things, feels guilty about small things, gets feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, feels blue and will either sleep a lot or too little. There will be a change in weight either upwards or downward and a feeling of being tired all the time. There are also problems in taking decisions, concentrating on a particular job and excess energy or perhaps restlessness.
There are certain things that trigger mood swings and one must be aware of what they are. More often than not, the triggering factors are events that have occurred in the person's life. All events from happy ones to sad and unpleasant ones can act as the trigger for both manic and depressive episodes. Things like an upset sleep schedule, any change in the dosage of drugs or an increase in alcohol intake, or if medication is on, then irregular doses will also act as a trigger. There are some herbal products that may not suit the physiology of the person and might act as a trigger. If the person has problems related to thyroid or other such health conditions then the person is could be at risk for bipolar depression.
But each person is different and each person will experience different reasons for setting off a depressive or manic episode. For some, even seasonal changes or holidays, illness, marriage, divorce of a friend etc and other socially relevant incidents in one's life can act as a trigger. It might help treatment if you keep a mood chart where you record your high phases and low phases. This will give an idea of the time, duration and reason for the episode and make your treatment more effective.
Today bipolar disorder is not a problem disease.There are treatments available and you need to talk to your health care provider so you can work out a plan that will help stabilize your mood swings.
How To Recognize Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
The name that bipolar disorder is often referred to as is manic-depressive disease. Anyone afflicted with this not only suffers himself but also causes suffering to those around him. They need constant care and attention and a support system that can help them handle life easier.
The sad fact is that in the US alone, there are 2 million suffering from this condition. Even sadder is the fact that it goes unrecognized in many. The signs are usually apparent in the teens and then tend to become worse in adulthood. It is a disease that is not curable but it can be treated and managed. The whole issue is about recognizing it and making the right diagnosis.
Having bipolar disorder does not mean a constant state of depression. There are usually swings of emotions and moods between extremes. Sometimes, people around these patients tend to take these highs and lows for granted and ignore them but one must remember that bipolar disorder people can be suicidal and one must take care of them and take any threat seriously.
Let's look at the symptoms of bipolar disorder so one can recognize them. Unless the disease is spotted and treated by a qualified physician, things could get out of hand.
One of the main symptoms is this false euphoria and then a sudden dip to depression. The person is usually very active, cannot stand still, tends to pick a fight and has an increased sexual drive. Now unless this happens on a regular basis at intervals, it could just be a bad hair day. Sometimes, these mood swings can deteriorate to hallucinations and delusions.
The strange thing about bipolar disorder is that the person goes through both depression and mania. He could be prone to insomnia or have vast changes in his appetite. In spite of everything, his energy levels could be boundless. Sometimes, he sinks into a vast well of morbidity and this is when suicidal thoughts surface and you must be very careful at this time. Ask for help if necessary. You can always call 911 in an emergency.
The key to diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder is to recognize the symptoms and get treatment as quickly as possible. All it takes is to be properly acquainted with the symptoms of the disease and getting the right kind of help that is necessary. There are online help centers as well as numbers you can call, not to mention support groups in most cities. Do make use of them if you suspect a loved one is going through the throes of this disease.
The Real Causes Of Bipolar Disorder
If we go by the 'cause and effect' theory we learned growing up and if we see bipolar disorder as the effect, what on earth would be the cause? The truth of the matter is that no-one really knows. This is in spite of so much research being done to find out why this condition occurs. However, it is still a mystery.
One piece of evidence that has shown up in studies is the fact of there being a chemical imbalance in the brain but then comes the question: what do you think would be the cause of this imbalance? Well, there are theories that it could be genetic or that it could be caused by environmental triggers.
Let's look at chemical imbalance first. There are widely held beliefs that this could be a result of lithium deficiency, dog bites or even osmosis. Many believe it could have its roots in psychological reasons. However, bipolar disorder has been known to run in certain families so we cannot rule out the genetic factor. Geneticists are trying to find the key to unlock this mystery.
On a physical plane, bipolar disorder is a condition that affects the neurotransmitter systems. When the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine or serotonin are low, this could be the result. However, exactly how and why this happens is anyone's guess till now. It is really very hard to read the complex area we call our brain.
Another reason being looked at as a cause is an environmental trigger. Does stress and shock and upsetting events lay the foundation of bipolar disorder or other diseases of the mind? This could be a stressful working atmosphere or the loss of someone close or any kind of traumatic event in the person's life. In some studies, there did seem to be a marked link between such events and the disease.
There's a model that is termed as Diathesis-Stress. This identifies people who are likely to succumb to bipolar disorder. Today, it seems that most of the people who are suffering from this condition seem to be getting it because of the genetic factor as well as the external stress factor combined.
If you are plagued by bipolar disorder, it could well be a combination of genetics and the environment. Today there are great options as far as treatment is concerned and you should take advantage of it. As more and more research and studies are done, the treatment becomes more sure, more skilled and the condition becomes more manageable. The fact remains however that there are a number of people who suffer from this ailment and go through life carrying its disadvantages - without ever getting a satisfactory answer as to why exactly bipolar disorder has hit them.
Inexplicable Child Tantrums: Could They Be Bipolar Disorder?
It really does get difficult to comprehend why an otherwise cheerful child suddenly goes into a crazy tantrum spell, with mood swings as well at times. More often than not, the reaction would be that he needs a good hiding and that it is a case of sparing the rod. Even if no parent wants to whack their child, the temptation to do so is quite understandable at times like these. Of course, the next thought that could come to mind is: does he have ADD or attention deficit disorder?
Well, one more reason you could look at just to rule it out is bipolar disorder. The common term for it is 'manic depression' but don't let the term scare you away. If your child has a problem, it can be managed with medication.
Take a look at some of the symptoms that typify bipolar disorder. One of the main things you notice is the mood swings sometimes quick to change, sometimes lasting for days. Another noticeable trait is what is termed as 'separation anxiety' where the child seems fearful of being away from the one who he is closest to and who takes care of him. Children with this disorder will also be terribly active and agitated. It's not the active exuberance of a normal healthy child but a strange overactive tendency. Concentrating on anything seems tough for him to do. These children are also mischievous but differently so you might find them suddenly picking fights for no apparent reason or trying to step out of moving vehicles. There could also be complaints of bullying other children.
Also present are sleep disorders and he will either sleep far too much or way too little. When he does go to sleep, it's a disturbed time and he could be hassled with 'night terrors' also called 'pavor nocturnus'. He could keep waking up in fear and it could be accompanied by bedwetting as well. The other symptom of bipolar disorder is finding it difficult to wake up in the morning and this can be a daily problem when you have to get him ready for school.
Or, during the day, you might find him talking to someone who isn't there. They hear voices and are plagued with hallucinations so do keep a sharp eye open for this. They also tend to have slightly strange sexual behavior.
What about food? Well, they have strong cravings for sugary foods and carbohydrates and you'll find he can never get enough. These strange cravings are repeated very often.
Another trait could be his feeling that he really is much superior to everyone. He will tend to have an exaggerated sense of his own importance and tends to dismiss most people as being not up to the mark. They don't like anyone questioning their authority and something like that only ends in a fight. Their speech too is a bit hurried and rather strained. They tend to talk fast and sometimes continuously and there is a kind of an anxious tone in their voice.
Not every child that is mischievous or very active or tantrum-prone suffers from bipolar disorder. However, as a parent, if many of these symptoms that we have listed are present, you might do well to have him checked out.
Alternative Medications For Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar is a disorder which has many definitions. It indicates a state of mind where the person experiences extreme variations in mood. It is also known as manic depression where deep depression follows high elation and this is an alternating process. This type of depression can have very lasting effects on the individual and on the family. It is characterized as manic episodes following depressive episodes.
Simply put, here is a disease that affects every aspect of human behavior - thoughts, feelings, perception and of course over all behavior. The reason for these mood swings, according to experts, is due to malfunctioning electrical and chemical elements in the brain. There is an opinion that it may be hereditary and if someone in the family had it or any other mental disorder, then chances are that you may also get it.
Medication is available but patients are not always comfortable taking them. The prescription medication is very often passed over in favor of alternative therapies or supplemental medication.
Research has shown that fish is very effective in treating bipolar patients. It is the omega 3 content in certain fish that is found to be an effective remedy. An intensive research was carried out on thirty bipolar patients which was a double blind study and placebo controlled. The aim was to compare the efficacy of omega 3 versus placebo or olive oil treatment for bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder has been defined as a neuropsychiatic illness with a high morbidity and mortality rate. The preliminary studies showed that omega 3 had a better performance and the result was seen in the form of longer remissions. This was done based on the severity of symptoms on a four point scale. Studies are still on and researchers are looking to produce some new classes of psychotropic compounds that would work as effective mood stabilizers.
Herbal supplements are preferred over the prescribed drugs but it has to be pointed out not all herbs are meant for bipolar treatment. There are some herbs which can make the condition worse and there are others which will react if taken along with certain drugs. So if you are considering herbal medication and are also on some regular drugs then do check with your doctor first.
Another important aspect to keep in mind while undergoing treatment for bipolar is diet and your nutrition. It is very important that your body gets the right nutrients at the right time. Holistic physicians prescribe thiamin, magnesium and B complex for depressive episodes.
It is a good idea to talk to your rabbi, priest or pastor instead of therapists. The role of the religious community is now being given due regard in terms of involvement in medication and psychotherapies. Prayers and spirituality make up this line of treatment.
There is yet another avenue that can be considered by those who stay at home a lot. These are called expressive therapies where you can join an art group or painting, sculpting or whatever your hobby is. You are sure to find a therapist in your locality where expressive and art therapies are undertaken. If you are looking for movement then try a dance class where you can allow your feet to tap out a rhythm all on their own. Put in all the emotional, cognitive and physical facets to your dancing and let your spirit soar.
If dance is not your thing but you like music then try a sound therapy class where soft soothing music will help your treatment. The stimulation of body chemicals will result in improvement in breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure and flow and posture changes.
Traditional therapies or even those based on cultures like acupuncture, yoga, reiki and shiatsu are all healing arts and these operate on the overall state of wellness of the individual comprising the emotional, spiritual and the physical. An imbalance in the forces in your body will result in an illness.
Ideally speaking, a combination of all these therapies - right diet, art therapies, pastoral, omega 3, traditional and art therapy and maybe the imbalance of forces in the body might be the answer.
What has to be remembered is that if you are on prescribed medication, don't stop that and check with your doctor if you have any problems. Confirm that you can safely use alternative medication with prescribed drugs.
Treatments And Medications For Bipolar Disorder
There probably is no area in our remarkable bodies more complex than the brain. Even the best brains in the world just cannot fathom how this wonderful organ works. Much as we hold it in awe, it can also be a source of great torment and since we cannot understand the causes, the cures are also a far cry away. At most, any mental and emotional aberrations can be treated with medication and just about managed.
The brain is the seat of everything we do and everything we feel. When it comes to our emotional responses, sometimes we are happy, sometimes sad and it is usually dependent on a cause-effect situation. When you feel happy or sad for no conceivable reason however, then there is cause to worry. In the condition called bipolar disorder, there is really no control or hardly any control over the emotions. There is a kind of a seesaw of moods and nothing external can cheer them up. The whole focus is the churning of emotions inside, for no apparent reason.
Of course all of us are subject to mood swings but in bipolar disorder, the swings are very marked and come on for no rhyme or reason at intervals. The two types of bipolar disorder are the manic kind and the depressive kind. In the first one, there is a kind of hyperactivity, increased energy, a feeling that he is always right and very often, a tendency for substance abuse. In the second, it is a bleak and long sadness and emptiness, a sense of pessimism and the feeling that everything is going wrong always. There are times when the hopelessness is so bad, suicide seems the only answer.
These symptoms whether it is the first or the second, can ruin any chances of a social life for the person concerned. It can also affect his education, his work and his family and friends. So it has to be attended to and the person put under the care of a qualified physician. Very often, the disease can be managed with medication and therapy.
Psychotherapy does help but it is usually more effective when combined with medication like lithium which is a mood stabilizer. An anticonvulsant like valproate or maybe even lamotrigine also helps. Medication must be done under experts and some side effects can be expected from these drugs. These could be hair loss, gaining or losing weight, dry mouth, tremors, a reduced sex drive and attacks of anxiety. However, they have to be taken, very often for life. The fact remains that life with medication is more tolerable than life without for bipolar disorder patients.