Similarities Between Bipolar Spectrum Disorders & Alzheimer's Disease

There are many similarities between bipolar disorders and Alzheimer's disease. Unfortunately, these similarities can make it difficult to diagnose bipolar disorder in older patients who may be suffering from Alzheimer's disease as well.

Symptoms

• Both bipolar disorders and Alzheimer's disease can cause agitation, aggression, apathy, euphoria and a lack of inhibition.

Brain Abnormalities

• Physical abnormalities of the brain's hippocampus have been documented in both bipolar and Alzheimer's patients.

Treatment

• Certain drugs, including risperidone, olanzapine, valproate and carbamazepine can improve behavioral issues in people with Alzheimer's disease and bipolar disorder.

Delusions

• People suffering from both bipolar disorders and Alzheimer's disease have been known to experience delusions. These delusions often have similar themes.

Sleep

• Sleep disorders are common in people who suffer from bipolar disorders and in those whose dementia is worsening.