Everybody has mood changes, but not everyone has the drastic mood swings that are characteristic of bipolar disorder. The high mood of bipolar disorder is called mania, or a manic episode. The low mood of bipolar disorder is called depression, or a depressive episode.
Bipolar disorder can severely disrupt normal activities, such as work, school, and relationships. People in the depressive phase of bipolar disorder may feel so low that they can’t even get out of bed in the morning. In the manic phase, people feel highly energized and may go on spending sprees, sleep little, overindulge in drugs or alcohol, or engage in risky sexual activities. Following are the signs and symptoms that distinguish bipolar disorder.
Signs and symptoms of a manic episode of bipolar disorder
* happy, expansive, optimistic mood (feeling “high,” feeling better than ever)
* alternative mood: irritable, angry, aggressive, provocative, intrusive
* impaired judgment; reckless; unpredictable
* excessive involvement in pleasurable or high risk activities, such as sex, drug or alcohol use, or spending sprees
* high physical and mental energy; increased productivity; excited; a feeling of high intelligence and creativity
* extremely talkative, rapid thoughts
* decreased need for sleep, less ability to sleep
* inflated self-importance; in some, delusions or hallucinations
* extremely sociable
* inability to concentrate; distracted; restless, impulsive
* no perception that the mood and behaviors are abnormal
A person in the manic phase of bipolar disorder rarely seeks help; the person may feel good and not recognize that anything is wrong.
Signs and symptoms of a depressive episode of bipolar disorder
* profound sadness, hopelessness, pessimism; crying spells
* low self-esteem, worthlessness
* “flat” mood: apathetic, indifferent; lack of interest or pleasure in most activities
* fatigue, lethargy: decreased energy and activity; difficulty getting out of bed in the morning
* decreased sexuality
* restless, irritable, angry, worried, anxious, guilty
* fewer thoughts and less talking; slower thinking and talking
* difficulty in concentrating, making decisions, and remembering
* social withdrawal; diminished ability to give and feel love
* drug or alcohol use
* change in appetite; weight gain or loss; loss of interest in food, even if eating more
* change in sleep patterns: sleeping more or less than usual
* suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts; life seems devoid of pleasure
2006-12-08 03:56:47
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answer #1
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answered by sarabmw 5
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My sister was diagnosed with bi-polarism years ago. She's now 27 and not nearly as bad as when she was in her teens. This girl your describing sounds alot worse. Does she know that she is bi-polar at all? Has she ever tried to get help. It's a chemical balance in the brain and I would imagine that somehow it creates a strain on her body and brain over all and creates stress. I don't know for sure but it could be harmful on the baby if she is under to much stress.
There isn't alot you can do about the situation if she constantly fights with you guys so I'm sure she won't listen to anything you say. She may deny there is anything wrong with her. If you can, talk to her family and suggest they talk to her about couseling or a theripast. The meds they can subscribe I'm sure she can't take when pregnant. Therapy can help ALOT!
Bi-polar/maniac depressive people can tend to be abusive at times too.
Have you seen proof of this pregnancy? She should have something from the doctor's office. Make sure you see proof if you haven't.
If she refuses to get help you son needs to try his best to stay out of any relationship with her except to benifit the child.
2006-12-08 04:05:19
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answer #2
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answered by Jenny 4
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Well first off, if she is pregnant and taking meds to be treated for bi-polar, you or your son need to make sure that her OB-GYN is fully aware, because most drugs used to treat bi-polar can cause birth defects and harm the baby.
Bi-polar people have all kinds of different symptoms, and they effect each person differently. I myself have a tendency to stay manic regardless of medications. When I am manic I usually don't really care much about what happens or what I am doing. I go on spending sprees and buy loads of stuff I can't use and sometimes can't actually pay for. My doctor reccomends that I don't drive too often or long distnaces because I get irriated and drive recklessly, and honestly I have no qualms about running my car into other vehicles if they are in my way. I am always agitated and can sometimes get violent. Again, not all bi-polar people are the same.
When I am on the down side and in depression, I am usually pretty deep down. I won't get out of bed for days, and if I do get up, I won't change out of my pjs, people have to remind me to brush my teeth and hair. I also have to be reminded to take a shower and even to eat.
Everybody is effected differently, I can't stress that enough, but usually there are common symptoms, though they might not necessarily be as extreme as mine. I wish you the best of luck.
2006-12-08 05:14:15
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answer #3
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answered by stacijo531 3
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Being bi-polar is very difficult not only on you but also her. A lot of the issue is the level of hormoes and only a good medical doctor can help you on that. If she knows that she is bi-polar that helps, but often times, they feel they are in control and rather not take medication for whatever reason.
I had to deal with it when I was marriedd with my ex-wife, she was rather radical with her mood swings, it wasn't easy. I got to a point, I had no other choice and moved on with life. It was the hardness thing I ever done, I truely loved her, now after 16yrs we still communicate and I still feel for her. She has her up and downs but trys to stay on her medications and that helps her. She is doing the best she can so be kind but understand there may be nothing you can do to make it better.
Her being pregnant is no reason to get married, you can still be committed and take care of the child. Its most likely going to get worth or even really bad. You need to be careful and look out for you and the child. It might come to the point where you will have to put the child in front of all other issues. Get ready for alot of hard luck, often times they use this as an excuse for this and that and inflamed attitudes.
If I could offer any advise, is that you really need to realize all the legal issues your walking into if you get married with her. Legally you will have to burden the radical issues to come, I could go into details but thats not fair to her or you. Issues on monies and property, always make sure that your in contol of all that.
Good medications are out there to help and therapy/consuling might help both of you.
Hope only good things for you !
2006-12-08 04:28:03
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answer #4
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answered by ricardo v 3
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I'm bipolar, so let me try to break it down simply. People with bipolar experience peaks and valleys, there isn't really a middle ground. Usually I'm either really happy or really depressed. When I'm really happy it's like a high almost (called Hypomanic episodes), where it's almost like I have dillusions of grandieur. On the other side, when I'm not so happy. I either get extremely irritable and will b*tch at anyone who crosses my path or I'll just be in my own world, totally silent. These mood swings, at least for me, can occur very rapidly and without warning. Hope this helps.
2006-12-08 03:57:04
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answer #5
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answered by BigDinSeattle 1
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The primary symptoms of bipolar disorder are dramatic and unpredictable mood swings. The illness has two strongly contrasting phases. In the manic phase: * Euphoria or irritability * Excessive talk; racing thoughts * Inflated self-esteem * Unusual energy; less need for sleep * Impulsiveness, a reckless pursuit of gratification -- shopping sprees, impetuous travel, more and sometimes promiscuous sex, high-risk business investments, fast driving * Hallucinations and or delusions (in cases of bipolar disorder with psychotic features) In the depressive phase: * Depressed mood and low self-esteem * Low energy levels and apathy * Sadness, loneliness, helplessness, guilt * Slow speech, fatigue, and poor coordination * Insomnia or oversleeping * Suicidal thoughts and feelings * Poor concentration * Lack of interest or pleasure in usual activities
2016-05-23 06:39:57
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answer #6
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answered by Anonymous
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basically when someone has BPD, when they are happy they are WAY too happy and when they are sad or down, they come down to extreme sadness and depression.
the only way it could really effect a fetus would be through stress, the umbilical cord might not provide as much nutrition as it should, or the baby will be stressed because of the tension at those extreme down moments. it could result in low birth weight or even miscarriage.
with the change in hormonal levels, i would definitely keep an eye on the mother, BPD patients have a high suicide rate.
2006-12-08 03:56:52
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answer #7
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answered by Fluffington Cuddlebutts 6
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Symptoms Return to top
The manic phase may last from days to months and include the following symptoms:
Elevated mood
Racing thoughts
Hyperactivity
Increased energy
Lack of self-control
Inflated self-esteem (delusions of grandeur, false beliefs in special abilities)
Over-involvement in activities
Reckless behavior
Spending sprees
Binge eating, drinking, and/or drug use
Sexual promiscuity
Impaired judgment
Tendency to be easily distracted
Little need for sleep
Easily agitated or irritated
Poor temper control
The depressed phase of both types of bipolar disorder involves very serious symptoms of major depression:
Persistent sadness
Fatigue or listlessness
Sleep disturbances
Excessive sleepiness
Inability to sleep
Eating disturbances
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Overeating and weight gain
Loss of self-esteem
Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and/or guilt
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Withdrawal from friends
Withdrawal from activities that were once enjoyed
Persistent thoughts of death
2006-12-08 03:55:30
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answer #8
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answered by mikeyv 2
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What Are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder causes dramatic mood swings—from overly "high" and/or irritable to sad and hopeless, and then back again, often with periods of normal mood in between. Severe changes in energy and behavior go along with these changes in mood. The periods of highs and lows are called episodes of mania and depression.
Signs and symptoms of mania (or a manic episode) include:
•Increased energy, activity, and restlessness
•Excessively "high," overly good, euphoric mood
•Extreme irritability
•Racing thoughts and talking very fast, jumping from one idea to another
•Distractibility, can't concentrate well
•Little sleep needed
•Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers
•Poor judgment
•Spending sprees
•A lasting period of behavior that is different from usual
•Increased sexual drive
•Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications
•Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior
•Denial that anything is wrong
A manic episode is diagnosed if elevated mood occurs with three or more of the other symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for 1 week or longer. If the mood is irritable, four additional symptoms must be present.
Signs and symptoms of depression (or a depressive episode) include:
•Lasting sad, anxious, or empty mood
•Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
•Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
•Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, including sex
•Decreased energy, a feeling of fatigue or of being "slowed down"
•Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
•Restlessness or irritability
•Sleeping too much, or can't sleep
•Change in appetite and/or unintended weight loss or gain
•Chronic pain or other persistent bodily symptoms that are not caused by physical illness or injury
•Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
A depressive episode is diagnosed if five or more of these symptoms last most of the day, nearly every day, for a period of 2 weeks or longer.
A mild to moderate level of mania is called hypomania. Hypomania may feel good to the person who experiences it and may even be associated with good functioning and enhanced productivity. Thus even when family and friends learn to recognize the mood swings as possible bipolar disorder, the person may deny that anything is wrong. Without proper treatment, however, hypomania can become severe mania in some people or can switch into depression.
Sometimes, severe episodes of mania or depression include symptoms of psychosis (or psychotic symptoms). Common psychotic symptoms are hallucinations (hearing, seeing, or otherwise sensing the presence of things not actually there) and delusions (false, strongly held beliefs not influenced by logical reasoning or explained by a person's usual cultural concepts). Psychotic symptoms in bipolar disorder tend to reflect the extreme mood state at the time. For example, delusions of grandiosity, such as believing one is the President or has special powers or wealth, may occur during mania; delusions of guilt or worthlessness, such as believing that one is ruined and penniless or has committed some terrible crime, may appear during depression. People with bipolar disorder who have these symptoms are sometimes incorrectly diagnosed as having schizophrenia, another severe mental illness.
It may be helpful to think of the various mood states in bipolar disorder as a spectrum or continuous range. At one end is severe depression, above which is moderate depression and then mild low mood, which many people call "the blues" when it is short-lived but is termed "dysthymia" when it is chronic. Then there is normal or balanced mood, above which comes hypomania (mild to moderate mania), and then severe mania.
2006-12-08 04:47:25
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answer #9
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answered by sbudda01 1
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Geez,I have no idea but I would contact a Doctor and ask mostly if she is on medication.
2006-12-08 03:55:24
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answer #10
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answered by daklove2002 2
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