Myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs) are medical conditions where bone marrow cells are produced abnormally, affecting the production of white blood cells, platelets, and red blood cells. The cause is unknown, but environmental factors and chromosomal abnormalities may play a role. Symptoms vary depending on the type of MPD, and complications can include enlarged spleen and liver, […]
Schizoid personality disorder impairs social interaction, causing a preference for a solitary lifestyle. Traumatic childhoods and genetics can cause the disorder, and treatment involves medication and therapy. Those with the disorder are unlikely to seek help. A schizoid personality disorder is a mental condition that impairs healthy social interaction with others. It is often characterized […]
Adjustment disorder with conduct disorder is a subtype of mental disorder caused by temporary stress, leading to inappropriate behavior without regard for others’ rights. Psychotherapy is the usual treatment, and medication is rare. Support groups can help patients understand their behavior. An adjustment disorder with conduct disorder defines one of six subtypes of mental disorder […]
A thinking disorder is a medical condition that results in disorganized or incoherent speech or writing, making it difficult for patients to communicate effectively. It is commonly associated with psychotic mental illnesses, but can also be a symptom of other medical conditions. Treatment involves addressing the underlying causes and may include medication and therapy. A […]
Organic mental disorders are caused by illness, injury or pathology affecting the brain. Alzheimer’s, depression, and OCD are common examples. The term “organic mental disorder” is becoming obsolete as it is difficult to separate physical and psychological aspects of brain conditions. Treatment depends on the specific condition. A organic mental disorder is an abnormality in […]
Muscle disorders negatively affect muscle function and can be caused by poor habits, nerve damage, degenerative diseases, and aging. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, limited mobility, weakness, and numbness. Dystonia is a painful muscle disorder with no cure, while muscle atrophy can be caused by disuse or other conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are important. A […]
Schizoaffective disorder is a mental illness characterized by symptoms of schizophrenia and mood swings. Treatment options include psychotherapy and medication. Symptoms usually appear in late teens or early 20s and can include hallucinations, delusions, depression, and manic episodes. A proper diagnosis is important, and treatment can include medication and therapy. Schizoaffective disorder is a psychological […]
Mood disorder not otherwise specified (NOS) is a general diagnosis for individuals who have mood-related symptoms but do not meet all the criteria for a specific mood disorder. Treatment depends on the prevalent symptoms or a more specific diagnosis, such as depressive disorder not otherwise specified (DD-NOS) or bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BD-NOS). Treatment […]
Compulsive lying is not considered a psychiatric disorder, but rather a symptom of another mental illness. It can be caused by a habit developed early in life or a desire for attention or personal gain. Pathological liars lie to reinforce their worth, while those with a mental illness may have no control over their lying […]
Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) is a psychological condition characterized by sporadic episodes of aggression, violence, and destructive behavior. It can be treated with therapy and medication, and is distinguished from other mood disorders by the presence of serious damage, disproportionate responses, and lack of explanation for the behavior. Treatment is important to prevent harm to […]
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a group of disorders caused by alcohol exposure in utero, leading to permanent birth defects and developmental disorders. There is no cure, and diagnosis can only be made after birth. Treatment is nonspecific and varies depending on the severity of symptoms. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the clinical […]
Somatization disorder is a mental illness where patients report physical symptoms without a medical cause. It is a type of somatoform disorder, and symptoms include pain, gastrointestinal issues, and menstrual complications. It is more common in women and can involve erratic behavior. Treatment involves therapy and medication. Somatization disorder is a psychiatric condition of patients […]
Conduct disorder is a mental illness that can occur in children and adolescents, characterized by destructive behaviors towards self and others. Treatment is necessary and may involve long-term therapy and involvement from parents. The disorder may be present with other mental illnesses and can lead to serious consequences without early intervention. In children and adolescents, […]
Acute bipolar disorder causes extreme manic or depressive behavior, with symptoms including loss of energy, trouble sleeping, and racing thoughts. Medications such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants can help manage symptoms, but hospitalization may be necessary in extreme cases. The disorder has no cure, but proper treatment and counseling can help individuals manage their […]
Antisocial personality disorder causes difficulty relating to others, abnormal thought processes, and a lack of concern for right and wrong. It often involves breaking the law, lying, and substance abuse. Treatment may include psychotherapy, medication, and anger or stress management classes. It can be caused by both genetic and environmental factors. Antisocial personality disorder is […]
Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings that can disrupt all aspects of a person’s life. It is a brain disorder that amplifies normal ups and downs to the extreme, causing intense depression and manic episodes. Treatment options include mood stabilizing drugs and talk therapy. The disorder is likely passed down in families, but other factors […]
Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) was originally a joke but has become a potential disease with categories such as social networking, gaming, pornography, and shopping. Some support its inclusion in the DSM-IV, while others believe it is a byproduct of existing disorders. Concerns about its classification as a legitimate disease center on the insurance industry. A […]
Language processing disorder, also known as auditory processing disorder, affects a child’s ability to interpret auditory information, follow directions, and remember information. It can be classified according to the area of difficulty and is treated with compensatory strategies and environmental changes. Diagnosis is made through hearing tests and therapy is provided by teachers, parents, and […]
Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) is a mental condition characterized by extreme extraversion, an obsession with personal appearance, and an often inappropriate use of seduction to manipulate others. Sufferers may display all the qualities admired by others, but many of them are also plagued by internal thoughts of inferiority. Treating HPD can be a difficult process. […]
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is characterized by unstable emotions, relationships, and self-esteem, while narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is marked by grandiosity, a need for admiration, and lack of empathy. Both may result from childhood trauma and have low self-esteem, but differ in how they present in therapy and react to disappointment. Treatment for both disorders […]
