Bipolar I is a severe form of bipolar disorder characterized by manic or mixed episodes, often accompanied by depression. Diagnosis requires ruling out physical causes and other mental illnesses. Treatment options include medication, psychotherapy, and other techniques.
Bipolar I is a form of bipolar disorder characterized by at least one manic or mixed episode in a patient’s history. Patients also commonly suffer from depression, which explains why this condition is sometimes called “manic-depressive disorder.” Bipolar I is the most severe form of bipolar disorder and can include disabling symptoms that make it difficult for the patient to function during a manic, depressive, or mixed episode. Treatment options are available, and as neurologists learn more about the brain and how it works in people with conditions like bipolar I, other options may develop.
Diagnosing patients with bipolar disorder is challenging and requires a series of medical tests and patient interviews. First, physical causes of mania, such as medications and recreational drugs, must be ruled out. The patient should also be carefully interviewed for diagnostic signs of other mental illnesses that are treated and managed differently. If a doctor can confirm that a patient has had one or more manic or mixed episodes and there is no physical cause, the patient may have bipolar I. If a patient has only had hypomanic episodes, the diagnosis is bipolar II.
Some patients have a form known as bipolar I with psychotic features. In these cases, during manic or mixed episodes, the patient experiences symptoms of psychosis such as delusions and hallucinations. These can make the manic episodes more intense, as well as more dangerous, for the patient because the patient may experience feelings of invincibility and may also develop extreme paranoia and other symptoms. During manic episodes, patients are typically very active and may have disorganized speech and thoughts.
One of the standard treatments available for patients with bipolar I is lithium, a drug that helps patients avoid the extreme highs and lows associated with bipolar disorder. Patients may also take other medications and may benefit from psychotherapy. Therapy can help patients manage and deal with emotions to avoid creating situations in which emotions fuel episodes of mania or hypomania, and therapy can also help patients with depressive symptoms.
Some people with bipolar I disorder and other forms of bipolar disorder choose not to control their condition with medication. Management with therapy and other techniques may be sufficient to meet their needs. Every patient is different, and patients may find it helpful to meet with several mental health professionals to find a professional who meets their needs and is willing to work with them to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
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