In the previous article I discussed what Bipolar disorder is, the types of Bipolar disorder and what are the different mood states. In this article I will discuss the diagnosis and treatment aspects, also what an individual with bipolar disorder may do to better manage their condition.
How is it Diagnosed?
The diagnosis is clinical. It means that the diagnosis is made based on the details provided by you, additional details provided by family and friends and based on the assessment and observation by the doctor.
Unfortunately there are no specific tests like blood tests or scans for the diagnosis, though tests are done to try and identify any cause that may have led to the development of the present condition.
What causes this illness ?
It may not be a single reason but a lot of factors may contribute to the development of Bipolar disorder. Some of the common reasons considered are:
- -Causes Unknown
- -Childhood trauma
- -Genetic factors
- -Stressful life events
- -Improper functioning of brain chemicals
- -Substance use
These are a few common reasons, but at the same time it is not exhaustive.
What is the course of the illness?
Bipolar disorder is episodic. It means that it comes and goes, i.e. it is not continuous. An occurrence of a mood state is termed as an episode of mania or an episode of depression etc..
What causes an episode?
An episode may occur for no particular reason, other times it may be associated with reasons like a stressful situation, change in season, missing medicines etc..
How are mood disorders treated ?
It depends on the condition. For mild and Moderate Depression therapies like CBT are offered. Sometimes other kinds of therapy are offered if certain other issues exist like couples therapy in relationship issues. But if depressive episodes are severe and in episodes of mania, also in the occurrence of psychotic symptoms medicines are preferred. The main classes of medicines preferred are-
- Mood Stabilizers
- Antipsychotics
- Antidepressants
How long should medicines be taken for ?
It depends on a lot of factors such as-
- -Is this the first episode ?
- -How severe was it ?
- -How long did it take to achieve remission ?
- -How long apart is each episode?
- -Any other risk factors?
- -Individual Patients choice
These are the few key questions. The treatment choice will have to be tailored patient to patient.
What can I as the patient do ?
- Take medicines regularly and only make changes after discussing with your doctor.
- Stick to a regular routine mainly with regard to Sleep, Food and exercise.
- Learn to identify early warning signs of a potential episode. This helps in early identification and treatment thus increasing chances of a faster recovery.
- Avoid stress and learn to manage stress
- Plan in advance on what to do next.
Resources
Thumbnail: Image by lircoglu from Pixabay
