What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder, is a type
of brain disorder, characterized by severe mood swings. It was formerly termed
as manic depression. It is a type of mental illness wherein the affected
individuals experience different manic episodes portrayed by high and low mood
levels.
What causes bipolar disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar
disorder still remains a mystery. However, several factors that are known to
increase the risk of developing this mental illness include the following:
·
Structural changes in
the brain: It is found that, individuals with bipolar disorder have certain
physical changes in the brain, that causes extreme mood swings.
· Genetic: Bipolar
disorder is thought to run in families and individuals with a first degree
relative are known to fall easy prey to the condition.
·
Imbalance in brain
chemicals: An imbalance in brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters plays a
vital role in the development of bipolar disorder.
What are the different types of bipolar disorder?
- Bipolar I disorder
- Bipolar II disorder
- Cyclothymic disorder
- Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified
How does bipolar disorder spreads?
Bipolar disorder is not a
contagious disease and therefore does not spread from one person to another.
What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
can be broadly categorized under 2 categories based on the mood swings:
Symptoms
of manic episode include:
- Extremely happy mood
- Severe irritability
- Fast speech
- Restlessness
- Impulsive behaviour
- Hyperactive behaviour
- Too little sleep
Symptoms
of depressive episode include:
- Prolonged period of sadness and low mood levels
- Lack of interest in social activities, gatherings and meeting friends
- Tiredness
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Suicidal attempt
- Difficulty in concentration and decision making power is impaired
- Problems in thinking
- Drastic change in eating and sleeping pattern
What is the treatment of bipolar disorder?
It is not possible to cure
bipolar disorder; however, with an appropriate treatment regime, the condition
can be effectively managed. The various methods used for treating bipolar
disorder include the following:
- Medications: Various medications such as mood stabilizers, antidepressants, anti – anxiety medications, antipsychotics, and a combination of antidepressant and antipsychotic are recommended depending on the condition of the individual.
- Psychotherapy: Individuals suffering from bipolar disorder are often given psychotherapy treatment along with medications. Some of the components of psychotherapy treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, family – focused therapy and psychoeducation.
In addition to the above
mentioned treatment methods, individuals with bipolar disorder are also given
electroconvulsive treatment if the situation demands. They may also require sleep
medications and herbal supplements.
How can bipolar disorder be prevented?
It is almost impossible to
prevent bipolar disorder. However, paying close attention to the early signs
and symptoms and noticing development of any unusual behavioral pattern can
help in slowing down the progression of the disease.
Diet and lifestyle changes in bipolar disorder?
The following lifestyle and
dietary changes are recommended for individuals with bipolar disorder.
- Getting regular sleep is essential.
- Avoiding alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs are a must.
- Exercising regularly and staying active can help improve your mood levels. Exercising helps release “happy hormones: which eventually enlightens the mood and brings down the anxiety and depression levels.
What is Ayurvedic treatment of bipolar disorder?
The various herbs that are
used for treatment of bipolar disorder include ashwagandha, shankapushpi,
ginseng, shatavari, kappikachu, jyotishmati, skull cap, nutmeg, oat straw,
ginkgo, jatamamsi, gotu kola, valerian root and St. John’s wort.
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