Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depressive illness is chronic mental illness, that affects millions of people in many countries including Anguilla. Although cure is not possible there are many treatment options available for individuals with this disorder.

What is Bipolar disorder?
This is a disorder that affects a person’s ability to experience a normal range of mood. It stems from a chemical imbalance in the brain that affects the way we experience moods. It can be hereditary, but it can also be triggered by overwhelming life experiences. The disorder affects both men and women equally. There are four main episodes of this disorder: mania, hypomania, depression and mixed mood.

Manic episode
This is a distinct episode during which there is abnormally and constantly elevated, expensive or irritable mood lasting at least one week.

Hypomanic episode
This is a milder form of mania that lasts at least 4 days.

Major depression episode
A period during which there is either depressive mood or loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities, lasting at least 2 weeks.

Mixed episode
A period of time during which an individual experiences both manic and major depressive symptoms nearly everyday for at least one week.

What are the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder?
Mania - This often begins with intense burst of energy, creativity and social ease. The following symptoms may occur:

• Feeling unusually “high”, euphoric or irritable and at least four of the following:

• Needing little sleep yet having great amounts of energy.

• Talking so fast that others cannot keep up with the thought pattern.

• Having racing thoughts.

• Being easily distracted that their attention shifts between many topics in just a few minutes.

• Having an inflated feeling of power, greatness or importance.

• Doing reckless things without concern about possible bad consequences.

Depression
• Feeling sad, blue, losing interest in the things one normally enjoys.

Plus at least 4 of the following:
• Changes in appetite or weight.

• Difficulty thinking or concentrating or making decisions.

• Feeling worthless or guilty.

• Thoughts of suicide or death.

Diagnosis
Many people with bipolar disorder do not know they have it. Some do not seek treatment because they are ashamed of what they feel. There are no lab tests available to make the diagnosis. The diagnosis is based on the signs and symptoms of the individual.

If you think that you or someone you know has bipolar disorder, the next step is to find a doctor who can help. You should be treated by a doctor skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. Your family doctor often can recommend a mental health specialist experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorders.

Treatment
Like many chronic disorders (e.g. diabetes mellitus) there is no cure for bipolar disorder. The disorder can be controlled by one or a combination of treatment options that include a variety of medications, psychotherapy and group support.
Many individuals with bipolar disorder once diagnosed and on treatment can live normal lives.

Conclusion
Bipolar disorder previously called manic depressive illness affects millions of people worldwide. This mood disorder can seriously affect the lives of individuals. Spouses and children living with someone with the disorder often find it difficult to cope with the individual. Once diagnosed and treatment commenced the person with bipolar disorder can live a productive and successful life.

Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr. Brett Hodge is an obstetrician/gynaecologist and family doctor who has over twenty years in clinical practice. Dr. Hodge has a medical practice in the Johnson Building in The Valley.

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