The Cause of Bipolar Disorder

The cause of bipolar disorder is not completely know. Genetic, neurochemical probably predispose thedisorder and environmental issues probably play a role in the progression of bipolar disorder. This seems to be a predominantly biological disorder in a specific part of the brain with a malfunction of the neurotransmitters in the brain.Neurotransmitters are the chemical part of the brain that controls thoughts and emotions. Since it is a biological disorder, it may be spontaneous or it may be triggered by stressors in life.

Reseachers are working to find the exact cause of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder usually runs in families. Studies show that as much as half the people with bipolar disorder have a family member with a mood disorder usually depression.

Having one parent, a fraternal twin increases the chance that a person will have bipolar disorder.

A person who has an paternal twin with bipolar disorder has an even greater risk of developing the illness than a fraternal twin.

Studies of where a child whose biological parent had the illness is raised by another family without bipolar disorder helped researchers learn more about the genetic causes causes.

Bipolar disorder is due to the dysfunction of certain neurotransmitters (chemical messengers)in the brain. These chemicals may are norepinephrine, serotin and many others. As a biological disorder, it may be triggered by external factors such as social circumstances or psychological stressors.

A life event may trigger a mood episode in a person with a genetic makeup for bipolar disorder.

Even without the specific genetic factors, changes in health habits, alcohol or drug abuse, or hormonal problems can trigger an episode.

Substance abuse is not considered a cause of bipolar disorder but it can worsen the recovery of the disorder. Use of alcohol or tranquilizers may induce more severe depressive phases.

Some medications like antidepressants can trigger a manic episode in people who are susceptible to bipolar disorder. Depressive episodes in some persons must be treated carefully when those people have had manic episodes. Because a depressive episode can turn into a manic episode when an antidepressant is taken, an antipsychotic drug is also used to prevent a manic episode. Protecting the person from antidepressant-induced mania.

Other medications can produce a symptoms that resembles mania. Appetite suppressants may trigger increased energy, decreased need for sleep and increased talkativeness. The difference is that after stopping the medication the person returns to his normal mood.

Illicit drugs such as cocaine, such as Ecstasy and amphetamines.

Excessive doses of over-the-counter drugs, including appetite suppressants and cold preparations.

Nonpsychiatric medications, such as medicine for thyroid problems excessive caffeine can mimic the appearance of mania .

If a person is has bipolar disorder, stress, frequent use of stimulants or alcohol, and lack of sleep may trigger the disorder. Certain medications also may set off a depressive or manic episode.

An imbalance in naturally occurring brain chemicals called neurotransmitters plays a significant role in bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. Imbalanced hormones may be involved in causing or triggering bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is more common in people who have a blood relative with the illness.

Stress, abuse, significant loss or other traumatic experiences can cause a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.

Reserchers are looking at hereditary as a cause of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is not passed from one generation to another genetically. There is a complex group of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.

Stress is a significant contributor to the development of bipolar disorder.