Bipolar Disorder

 
Bipolar Disorder
Major mood swings may signal the presence of bipolar disorder. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
  • Fight back with fish oil

    If your doctor agrees, try improving bipolar symptoms with fish oil capsules delivering 9.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day along with your medications

  • Work in a workout

    Discuss exercise with your medical provider to see if it might be beneficial for you

Also indexed as:
  • bipolar disease,
  • bipolar disorder,
  • bi-polar disorder,
  • manic depression,
  • manic depressive disorder,
  • manic depressive illness

About this treatment

About This Condition

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by alternating states of depression and mania that follow each other in a repeating cycle.

People with bipolar disorder may cycle through these states quickly or may experience long periods of depression or mania. Often one mood state predominates, while the other occurs only infrequently or briefly. The cause of bipolar disorder is unknown.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the elevated mood stage of bipolar disorder include an exaggerated sense of confidence and well-being, racing thoughts, excessive talking, distractibility, increased desire for pleasurable activity, decreased need for sleep, impulsivity, irritability, and impairment in judgment. The depressed phase includes symptoms of sadness, fatigue, pessimism, feelings of helplessness, low self-esteem, and loss of interest in life, possibly with thoughts of suicide.


Last Review: 05-11-2011

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.

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