Late-Onset Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a condition that causes severe changes in moods, with alternating periods of mania and depression. While it is most common for the condition to develop in the early 20s, in some cases it can manifest in middle age or later. This is called late-onset bipolar disorder.

Manic Symptoms

• The symptoms of a manic episode in late-onset bipolar disorder are the same as in early-onset bipolar disorder. They can include risk-taking behaviors, insomnia, euphoria and heightened levels of activity.

Depressive Symptoms

• Whether the condition is late- or early-onset, symptoms of depression in bipolar disorder may include feelings of emptiness and sadness, loss of interest in daily life, suicidal thoughts and fatigue.

Prevalence

• As of 2009, there is little empirical data on the prevalence of late-onset bipolar disorder. However, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center estimates that around 10 percent of bipolar patients have a late-onset form of the condition.

Causal Differences

• Early- and late-onset bipolar disorders tend to have different contributing factors. Trauma, substance abuse and stroke are often involved in the development of the late-onset form of the condition. Late-onset patients are also less likely to have a family history of mood disorders.

Treatment

• Medications used to treat bipolar disorder include mood-stabilizers such as lithium and Depakote, antidepressants and antipsychotics. These medications are typically paired with psychological counseling.