Bipolar Depression
Medical Review
Overview of Bipolar Depression
Bipolar Depression is a mood disorder where there is presence of bipolar disorder with current episode of depression with or without psychotic symptoms. It mainly affects the mood, thoughts and daily activities of a person.
Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Depression
Feeling low mood or depressed, Feelings of guilt, Feeling hopeless and worthless, Insomnia, Irritability, Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities once enjoyed, Loss of appetite, Loss of weight, Fatigue, Poor concentration, Reduced libido, Suicidal thoughts, Hallucinations, Delusions
Common Causes of Bipolar Depression
Genetic, Changes in brain structure and function, Abuse, Substance misuse, Serious illnessess, Death or loss of family member or close friend
Risk Factors of Bipolar Depression
Age, Gender, Family history of psychiatric disorders, Childhood mental illness, Childhood abuse, Personality disorder, Marital conflicts, Physical illness, Neurological conditions
Investigation Techniques for Bipolar Depression
Full blood count, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, Blood urea and serum electrolytes, Urine toxicology, CT scan of brain, MRI scan of brain, Electroencephalogram (EEG)
Treatment and Prevention of Bipolar Depression
Mood stabilizers such as lithium and sodium valproate, Anti depression medication such as tricyclic antidepressants or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), Antipsychotics such as olanzapine, Electroconvulsive therapy, Counseling, Cognitive behavioral therapy
Available Bipolar Depression Medicines
No medicines currently available for this condition.



