Bipolar disorder results in extreme swings in mood, energy, and ability to function. The mood changes of bipolar disorder are more dramatic than normal ups and downs. They can hurt relationships and cause poor job or school performance. Bipolar disorder can be treated. Contact your doctor if you think you may have this condition.
The two extremes of the illness are mania and depression . In mania, energy peaks. The mood may be overly happy or irritable. In depression, lethargy takes over. The mood may be very blue.
There are three forms of this condition:
The cause of bipolar disorder is not known. This condition tends to run in families. Specific genes may play a role. It is most likely many different genes that act together.
A family history of the disorder increases your chance of developing it. Tell your doctor if you have a family member with bipolar disorder.
Symptoms include:
Signs and symptoms of mania include:
Signs and symptoms of depression include:
Severe episodes of mania or depression may sometimes be associated with psychotic symptoms such as:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam may be done. In some cases, lab tests are ordered. They will help to rule out other causes of mood and behavior symptoms. You may be referred to a mental health specialist. Diagnosis of bipolar disorder is based on:
Mania is diagnosed if:
A depressive episode is diagnosed if:
Some medicines and other medical issues may show similar features such as:
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include:
Many patients are treated with a combination of two or more of these medications:
The plan is based on the pattern of the illness. Treatment may need to be continued indefinitely. It should prevent significant mood swings.
Psychotherapy may include:
Electroconvulsive therapy may be effective when medications fail. It can be used for both mania and depression.
RESOURCES:
Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation
http://www.bpkids.org/
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
http://www.dbsalliance.org/
National Institute of Mental Health
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Psychiatric Association
http://www.cpa-apc.org/
Mood Disorder Association of Canada
http://www.mooddisorderscanada.ca/
References:
Belmaker R. Medical progress: bipolar disorder. N Eng J Med . 2004;351:476-486.
Bipolar disorder. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/bipolar.cfm . Accessed November 10, 2005.
Hirschfeld RMA. Guideline Watch: Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients with Bipolar Disorder . 2nd ed. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association; 2005. Available at: http://www.psych.org/psych_pract/treatg/pg/prac_guide.cfm . Accessed January 20, 2007.
Hirschfeld RMA, Bowden CL, Gitlin MJ, et al. Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Bipolar Disorder (Revision). American Psychiatric Association; 2002. Available at: http://www.psych.org/psych_pract/treatg/pg/Practice%20Guidelines8904/BipolarDisorder_2e.pdf . Accessed on January 20, 2007.
Last reviewed February 2009 by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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