Home - health - Bipolar Disorder – Its Types And Early Signs
Bipolar disorder – Its types and early signs

Bipolar disorder – Its types and early signs

Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder characterized by extreme moods, either significantly high or low. The high periods are referred to as mania or hypomania, and the low moods are called depression. However, the moods can sometimes be concurrent, meaning individuals with bipolar disorder may have manic and depressive symptoms at once. The condition is usually difficult to diagnose; however, some signs can detect bipolar disorder early, and treatment can be started accordingly.

Types and symptoms
Often, the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder overlap with those of other conditions, so it becomes difficult to diagnose it timely, which can delay treatment. However, there are now some criteria laid out by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders that help recognize bipolar disorder.
There are four types of bipolar disorders, and the symptoms vary according to the type of the condition. These are as follows:

1. Bipolar I
This type is diagnosed when the individual experiences manic episodes. The symptoms are as follows:

  • This includes a significant shift in the behavior and mood of the person. These mood changes are often unlike the person’s personality or usual behavior, making it evident that something is wrong.
  • A manic episode is also considered manic when it is present most of the day and nearly daily. So, it is not a once-in-a-while episode, but it happens almost daily and often.
  • These episodes last a week or are so severe that hospital intervention is needed, and then they are recognized as manic episodes.

Those dealing with bipolar I disorder also experience depressive episodes. However, according to the criteria, bipolar I is only diagnosed when the abovementioned symptoms are experienced. Other symptoms may overlap and hinder treatment and management therapies.

2. Bipolar II
This type of bipolar also has high and low moods; however, depressive episodes are more frequent and likely to be crucial in diagnosing bipolar II. The manic symptoms are less severe, and these mild signs are called hypomania. The symptoms and criteria for a bipolar II diagnosis involve the following:

  • Individuals should experience at least one major depressive episode and one episode of hypomania.
  • Specialists need to rule out any other conditions that could overlap with these symptoms.

3. Cyclothymic disorder
This is another type of bipolar disorder, which is diagnosed when the changes in mood and behaviors are similar to those in bipolar I and II. Still, the changes are less erratic and dramatic. Those with this type of bipolar usually have the symptoms for a minimum of two years at least, and in children, these symptoms are present for a year.

4. Unspecified bipolar disorder
This is a type of bipolar disorder that has symptoms of the condition. Still, they are not precisely similar to any of the other three types, so they cannot be categorized or diagnosed as any of the above types. These symptoms may adversely affect a person’s social, professional, or personal life and stress them out. If a patient has nonspecific bipolar disorder, it usually means that their symptoms are either too mild or don’t last long enough to qualify as a specific kind of bipolar disorder.

Signs of mania
While the criteria of symptoms are discussed to help categorize the type of bipolar an individual can be diagnosed with, here are the symptoms that specify a manic episode in individuals.

  • Feeling overtly happy or high for long periods
  • Feeling “wired” or jumpy often
  • Not getting enough sleep because the body feels a reduced need for it
  • Talking extremely fast and often with changes in topic and also racing thoughts
  • Not having a big appetite and not feeling hungry enough
  • Experiencing distractions often and easily
  • Feelings of being able to do anything and everything
  • Engaging in risky behavior, ranging from impulsive actions like gambling or going on a spending spree
  • Feeling of extreme restlessness and impulsive thoughts and actions
  • Feeling of grandiosity

Signs of depression
Apart from the mania symptoms, the lows are so low that they are depressive episodes, and here are some signs of depression to look out for:

  • Feeling sad or hopeless for long periods
  • Experiencing severe fatigue or a lack of energy
  • Having a disturbed sleep cycle, for example, either sleeping too much or not enough
  • Forgetting things and having trouble concentrating
  • Feeling burdened to do the smallest tasks
  • Talking and conversing very slowly
  • Thinking about suicide or death often, or attempting suicide
  • Having extreme and drastic changes in appetite
  • Withdrawing from family and friends and not taking part in any social activities
  • Losing interest in activities once enjoyed

Experts say these extremely high and low moods can sometimes lead to hallucinations and delusions. These types of symptoms are known as psychosis. When people feel grandiose, they suddenly feel like they may have special powers that are extremely important. Those experiencing extremely low episodes may feel like they are financially ruined and have committed some crime. They may also sometimes hear, smell, or see things that may not be there.

Symptoms in children
Some signs should be noticed in children, and these include the following:

  • Having a short temper
  • Focusing on an activity becomes difficult
  • Having racing thoughts
  • Complaining about aches and pains

Guardians need to be aware of these symptoms to carefully understand how to proceed with doctor appointments and diagnoses. Some management tips may help with regulating symptoms in adults and children. This involves a holistic approach, which involves joining support groups, taking treatments as suggested by a psychiatrist, and attending therapy sessions, which can help deal with negative thought patterns and manic episodes.

** If one or anyone one knows is going through suicidal thoughts, dial 888 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Text “HOME” to the Crisis Textline at 741-741.

Latest Articles

5 smart ways of using tablet computers
Tablets

5 smart ways of using tablet computers

You see tablet computers everywhere. More and more people are now moving toward tablets in offices, coffee shops, homes, and even schools. This is because they offer more power and uses than a smartphone and better portability than a desktop or even a laptop. Tablets have many more uses than simply checking your emails or browsing social media. Here are some interesting ways to find more uses for your tablet computer: Second screen Some people like to work on two screens at a time due to the demand of their work. This also enhances productivity and cuts down on time. It is easy to mirror your Android to another Android or even a computer. To use your tablet as an extended display, you need to install an application on your computer and connect the tablet to it using a USB cable or Wi-Fi. Some of the best app options to do this include Spacedesk, Google Remote Desktop, iDisplay, Duet Display, etc. As a remote to control electronics Tablet computers can be easily used to control your electronics. A tablet is larger than a remote and much easier to find and operate with better features. You can control your PC and television with it. It can also dim your home lights, open your garage door, and operate your smart fridge and washing machine. For instance, if you have a Sony Smart TV, you can use the TV Sideview application for your Apple and Android systems. E-Reader If you are an avid reader and have an old tablet, you don’t need to purchase a new e-reader. Your tablet can easily be used as an e-reader to browse your favorite books, magazines, comic strips, and even news applications. Since tablet screens have more glare, we suggest getting an anti-glare film on the screen.
Ignore these 8 foods when diagnosed with hyperkalemia
health

Ignore these 8 foods when diagnosed with hyperkalemia

Potassium is an essential nutrient that allows your body to function optimally. A meal plan rich in potassium allows proper nerve function and regulates your heartbeat. However, certain conditions such as kidney diseases and consuming food rich in potassium excessively may increase its levels in your bloodstream leading to a condition known as hyperkalemia . Let’s look at foods you should limit to keep your potassium within normal levels. Bananas The first food that comes to mind when people think of potassium sources is bananas. One medium-sized banana contains almost 422 mg of potassium. Though it would take a lot of bananas to cause an overdose of potassium, if you are also eating other foods rich in potassium, it will lead to excessive potassium levels in your blood, which in turn, will trigger hyperkalemia . Tomato Sauce and Paste Raw tomatoes contain a decent amount of potassium. One medium tomato has about 292 mg of potassium. Concentrated forms of tomatoes, such as sauces, salsa, paste, puree, etc., contain even higher amounts of potassium. For instance, a small cup of tomato sauce contains almost 728 mg potassium. So, it is advised to skip tomato sauce and opt for alternatives such as basil or roasted red peppers. Milk If you have been advised a low potassium meal plan, you must avoid milk or at least its consumption needs to be reduced. A cup of whole milk contains around 350 mg of potassium. The lower the amount of fat in milk, the higher the potassium content. While you may have a small serving of milk daily, it should not exceed 300 ml. It means avoiding milk and dairy products such as buttermilk, yogurt, milk-based sweets, ice creams, and other desserts. Oranges and Orange Juice Oranges have a very high potassium content and are best avoided if diagnosed with hyperkalemia .
7 mistakes to avoid when buying a new computer
Tech

7 mistakes to avoid when buying a new computer

With all the options of computer brands available in the market today, you might think it is effortless to pick up one. However, with so many choices, it can get tricky as buying a computer is a hefty, long-term investment. That’s why you should be aware of some common buying mistakes people would make while purchasing this device. And so, here are a few things to avoid before you invest in a computer : Buying without knowing your needs Never buy a computer just because everyone is buying it or there’s a lot of hype around it. While you may want to prioritize aesthetics and popularity, you need to identify your need for a computer and its software . Make a list of all the features that you would need and get the computer configured accordingly. Unfamiliar with different software programs Not knowing the right software may cost you heavily. Purchasing expensive software with a long list of features may not be the best thing to do if half of these features don’t even apply to your work. Next, know how to install and use the software. You also need to know if the software is protected against bugs with an antivirus program and consider the after-sale service of the software. Not considering different operating systems There are four primary operating systems you should know – Microsoft, Apple, Google, and Linux. While technology has made it easier to switch between these operating systems, you may often find one or more applications not working on alternative systems. So, if you have an expensive software installed, check with your developer if it will be compatible with the OS you plan to get. Not accounting for other computer costs A common mistake made by many while purchasing a computer is not accounting for other costs that are part of the bundle.