Connection of Bipolar Disorder to Heart Disease

The link between bipolar disorder and heart disease is not clearly understood by the medical community. Experts are divided over potential causes and complications associated with the commonly comorbid (simultaneously occurring) conditions.

Misdiagnoses

• According to the National Institute of Mental Health, bipolar disorder often goes undetected when significant health problems, including heart conditions, are present.

Lifestyle

• Anne Harding of Reuters Health reports increased risk of terminal heart disease in bipolar individuals is entirely the result of lifestyle factors, including cigarette smoking and lack of exercise.

Comorbidity

• The National Institute of Mental Health explains heart conditions may trigger manic or depressive symptoms or may be caused by bipolar disorder treatments.

Antidepressants

• The University of Rochester Medical Center reports selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a type of antidepressant, may halt the progression of heart disease in bipolar individuals, suggesting a connection between emotional distress and heart health.

Treatment

• The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of coordinated health services between care providers for patients requiring both heart disease and mental health treatments.