Addison’s disease is a medical disorder related to insufficient production of certain hormones by the adrenal glands. Bipolar disorder is a psychological disorder that is thought to have a biological basis. Common symptoms between the two disorders are low energy, irritability, appetite disturbance and depression. Some significant differences between Addison’s disease and bipolar disorder do exist, however.
Symptoms
Other symptoms of Addison’s disease that are unlike those of bipolar disorder include muscle weakness, darkening of the skin, cravings for salt, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, gastrointestinal discomfort and muscle or joint pain.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by unusually euphoric or agitated moods, along with depression or a mix of high and low moods. A manic episode includes symptoms such as inflated self-esteem, more talkative or pressured speech, racing thoughts and increased goal-directed behavior or increased physical movements. Bipolar disorder tends to have a life-long course.
Causes
The cause of Addison’s disease is an insufficient production of hormones by the adrenal gland. Although the cause of bipolar disorder is not entirely clear, it is attributed to a combination of factors that may be primarily biological, but also influenced by environment and genetics. Specifically, the current belief is that the potential for a person to develop bipolar disorder is created by impaired functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain. The disorder may then develop on its own accord or be triggered by environmental or psychological factors, according to Psych Central.
Treatment
The courses of treatment for Addison’s disease and bipolar disorder are also different. According to MayoClinic.com, the treatment for Addison’s disease involves medication that attempts to supply the body with the hormones not made by the adrenal gland. This medication can be administered either orally or by injection.
According to Psych Central, a common course of treatment for bipolar disorder is a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medication for this disorder typically falls into three categories: mood stabilizers, anti-depressants or anti-psychotic medications.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is also often used to treat bipolar disorder, according to Mental Help. CBT can help patients identify and modify negative thoughts and behaviors to create positive change and improved emotional functioning.
References
- Psych Central: The Causes of Bipolar Disorder
- “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fourth Edition – Text Revision”; American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- Mayo Clinic: Addison's Disease
- Mental Help: Bipolar Disorder Treatment - Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
