Q• How prevalent is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder affects approximately 3 to 5% of the adult population and is equally distributed between men and women.
Q• What are the symptoms ?
Mania Episode Signs and Symptoms:
- Increased energy
- Euphoric mood
- Also, extreme irritability
- Poor concentration
- And sleeplessness
Depressive Episode Signs:
- Sadness
- Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
- In addition, feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Loss of interest
- Also, restlessness
- fatigue
- difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Q• Can someone have a medical condition that appears to be bipolar disorder but actually is something else?
Certain conditions mimic mood disorders, including bipolar disorder. Common ones are:
- thyroid conditions
- neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and brain tumor
- infections of the brain from conditions such as HIV infection and syphilis
- deficiencies of certain vitamins, such as vitamin B12
Q• How is it treated?
This disorder is treatable and manageable with psychotherapy and medications.
Q• If I am diagnosed with this disorder, will I be on medication for the rest of my life?
Not necessarily. However, patients are encouraged to stay on medication indefinitely if an episode was associated with great risk to their health and family.
Q• Which foods should i avoid if i have bipolar disorder?
Do not take too much caffeine. It can affect your sleep.
It causes nervousness, heart palpitations, headaches and increase blood pressure which may irritate the stomach or esophagus.
Also, make it a point to avoid high-fat foods with some medications and talk to your doctor about your medications and necessary dietary changes.
Q• Is there anything I can do to help my disorder?
Yes. First, learn all you can about the condition. Also, read books and talk to a doctor. Lastly, get support from others who also have the disorder.
https://www.webmd.com/bipolar- disorder/qa/what-should-you-know-about-alcohol-and-bipolar-disorder
REFERENCES
1. Bressert, S. (2020). Frequently Asked Questions about Bipolar Disorder. Psych Central. Retrieved on August 10, 2020, from https://psychcentral.com/bipolar/faq-about-bipolar-disorder/
