Neurology Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is generally classified as a mood disorder. It occurs as a result of an irregularity in the way the brain and nervous system regulate behavior. This irregularity can then lead to memory lapse, seizures or manic episodes. When this occurs constantly, a relationship between mood disorders and neurological abnormalities is established.

Who It Affects

• Bipolar disorder affects men and women equally. Women who have bipolar are more likely to have symptoms of depression. Men experience more episodes of mania.

Causes

• In some cases, abnormal levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals that send signals to the nervous system) are thought to cause the severe mood swings, depression and mania that characterize bipolar disorder

Role of Neurology

• A study published by the National Institute of Health found that bipolar disorder patients seem to have more neurological dysfunction.

Diagnosis

• Doctors diagnose bipolar disorder by accessing symptoms such as suicidal thoughts and obtaining a medical history that includes prescription and non-prescription drug use and blood tests. Medical conditions that can cause some of the same symptoms of mood disorders, such as hyperthyroidism, are ruled out.

Treatment

• When bipolar disorder is associated with neurological illness, treatment requires drugs to stabilize the mood. Treatment of mania may prevent neurological illnesses from becoming worse.