Epilepsy & Bipolar Disorder

Epilepsy and Bipolar Disorder Often Co-exist

People who suffer from epilepsy are often afflicted with mood disorders as well. Bipolar disorder, a mood disorder typified by periods of depression alternating with periods of mania, is common in epileptics.

What is Epilepsy?

Also called "seizure disorder," epilepsy is a medical condition that results in seizures, which affect both mental and physical functions.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder marked by periods of extreme depression alternating with periods of manic activity, including agitation, insomnia, and excessive energy.

Causes of Mood Disorders in Epileptics

Mood disorders in those who suffer from epilepsy can be caused by physical factors, medication, or other reasons.

Physical Factors

Epilepsy related to brain injury, such as a head injury, infection, stroke or a tumor may also influence mood, resulting in mood disorders.

Medication

Medications taken to relieve the symptoms of epilepsy may be responsible for bipolar and other mood disorders, as some of these medications have been associated with depression.

Other Factors

Living with epilepsy may lead to mood disorders, due to the frustration caused by the limitations placed upon those who suffer seizures, such as being unable to drive or work, and by the prospect of having seizures.

References

• Mood Disorders and Epilepsy

Resources

• Mood Disorders and Epilepsy