Feature and Causes of Bipolar I Disorder
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Bipolar I disorder, commonly known as manic-depression, is a serious mental illness that possesses its own unique set of traits, behaviors and treatments. Those who suffer from bipolar I disorder experience a wide array of extreme emotional states, from dizzying highs of euphoria and productiveness to devastating lows filled with depression and negative thought patterns. Unfortunately, there is no "quick fix" for treating bipolar I disorder, but with proper understanding and long-term treatment, it can be a manageable condition.
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The precise cause of bipolar I disorder is unknown. Most medical professionals think the condition is brought on by a variety of factors, with brain chemistry being the largest component. Brain activity is regulated by neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine, which control mood levels and emotional stability. An imbalance in these neurotransmitters is a key player in the creation of bipolar I disorder.
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Genetics may also be a causal factor in the development of the illness. Research has shown that if a family member has a form of bipolar disorder, others in the family are susceptible to it at as well. Typically, however, it takes a particularly stressful incident to generate the first signs of the condition. Also, it is important to remember that many people who have a family member with bipolar I disorder do not have the gene themselves.
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Environmental factors, drug use and inordinately stressful situations can also trigger the illness.
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There are numerous telltale signs of bipolar I disorder. One of the most noticeable is mania. When someone suffering from this illness is having a manic episode, he will be filled with seemingly endless amounts of energy and ambition, constantly on the move, accompanied by the conviction that he is indestructible. During the manic phase, the sufferer will sleep little (if at all) and eat far less than normal. Delusions of grandeur, uninhibited and uncharacteristically wild behavior, and, in some cases, touchiness and argumentativeness are all signs of the manic period. Patients have been known to become disconnected from reality during this time, leading to hallucinations and psychotic episodes. The manic portion of bipolar I disorder can last days, weeks or even months, depending on changes in brain chemistry. Bipolar I is distinguished from other bipolar conditions by the presence of at least one fully developed manic episode lasting a minimum of one week; in many cases, the patient may need to be hospitalized. Bipolar II disorder, by contrast, consists of hypomanic periods, which are far less overpowering and do not impede the sufferer's day-to-day activities.
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On the flip side of the manic period is the "mixed episode." In this phase of bipolar I, the patient has the feeling of being both manic and severely depressed at the same time. These feelings will typically occur daily for at least a week.
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For those dealing with bipolar I disorder, it is vital to seek medical treatment. Under the care of a doctor, the effects of the illness can be monitored and a treatment plan put in place. Though any form of bipolar disorder presents many challenges to both the patient and his loved ones, many with the illness can lead full, productive lives with the right course of treatment.
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