Bipolar disorder and manic depression are both names for the same disease. Both terms refer to the severe mood swings---from the manic "pole" to the depressive "pole"---characteristic of the disease. Bipolar mood swings can be mild or extreme depending on the severity of the illness and, if left untreated, symptoms can become more severe over time. Bipolar disorder affects both genders equally and the National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that more than 10 million people in the United States have this disorder.
Causes
Scientists really aren't sure what causes the disorder. Bipolar disorder appears to be more common in people with a family history of the disease, yet there have been studies on identical twins where one develops the disorder and the other does not. The fact that two people, with identical genetic makeup, don't both develop the disorder would indicate that environmental and personal biochemical factors also play a role. The general consensus is that bipolar disorder is most likely caused by a number of factors from family history to hormonal imbalances. The average age of onset is the late teens to early 20s, but symptoms can develop as early as childhood and even later in life.
Signs & Symptoms of Mania
In the manic stage the patient may experience mental symptoms ranging from giddiness to extreme irritation and agitation. In extreme cases the patient may experience delusions of grandeur and even paranoia. From a behavioral standpoint, a patient in the manic phase may stop sleeping and become very active. There may be an increase in impulsive, high-risk behaviors like spending sprees, impulsive sexual behavior and even criminal behavior. Physically, a manic person may feel more energetic and even have a higher tolerance for pain.
Signs & Symptoms of Depression
In the depressive state, the patient may experience mental symptoms ranging from mild sadness, or "blues," to extreme and even suicidal despair. The patient may have difficulty concentrating and retaining information. From a behavioral standpoint, the patient may experience changes in eating and sleeping habits and loss of interest in pleasurable activities, including sex. Physically, a depressed person may feel extreme fatigue and have a lower pain threshold.
Diagnosis
The early symptoms of bipolar disorder may be mistaken for other issues and, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health, many people go undiagnosed for years. The age of onset may play a part in the misdiagnosis, as some of the behavioral issues may be mistaken for normal adolescent misbehavior. Some patients may also self-medicate with drugs or alcohol, which can also mask the true nature of their illness. As of late 2009, there is no lab test for bipolar disorder, but tests can rule out other factors like brain tumors or stroke. Bipolar disorder is generally diagnosed with a physical exam and a complete diagnostic evaluation from a mental health professional experienced with the disorder.
Treatment & Prognosis
The most effective treatment for bipolar disorder is a combination of medication and therapy. The medication helps stabilize the patient's mood while therapy teaches the patient coping mechanisms for dealing with the disease. While bipolar disorder is a serious and potentially debilitating illness, with proper treatment people with the disease can live long and productive lives.
