Case studies on bipolar disorder have yielded surprising information about a condition that can have a chaotic effect on everyday life. Clinical evaluation helps scientists to see how the illness develops, how it progresses, and how it affects mind and body.

Because this condition affects so many people, information on bipolar disorder obtained via clinical trials is invaluable. The insights gained have helped patients to lead productive lives.

Case studies on bipolar disorder help researchers to evaluate reliability of diagnostic procedures, the efficacy of different medications, effectiveness of combined treatments, psychotherapeutic methods and how behavioral interventions may help, and successfulness of preventative approaches.

Current information on bipolar disorder reveals that certain physical conditions and a number of psychiatric disorders present with symptoms that could be mistaken for manic depression. Additionally, other psychiatric illnesses can occur concomitantly or in conjunction with manic-depressive symptoms.

Because it is difficult to diagnose manic-depressive illness, a complete physical exam needs to be undertaken to first rule out other factors that may be contributing to fluctuating moods. For example, case studies on bipolar disorder have revealed, surprisingly, that people with upper neck injuries may exhibit mood disturbances.

Psychiatric evaluation will take into account family history, to establish a possible hereditary link. Current information on bipolar disorder tells us that, if a family has a history of depression or manic depression, this can be an indication that the patient may be contending with an illness that has genetic underpinnings.

Once physical factors have been ruled out and if no other psychiatric illness accounts for symptoms—if these have been persistent and have caused impairment in areas of functioning—then a patient may be diagnosed with the condition.

Case studies on bipolar disorder have revealed a wide range and variation in symptoms, depending upon whether a person is experiencing a depressive or manic episode. Even before diagnosis, however, what we know is that typically a person with undiagnosed manic depression may have a charismatic, outgoing personality, approaching life with zest and energy, but he or she experiences wide mood swings.

Hypomania is not as severe as full-blown mania and information on bipolar disorder has revealed that this condition is more common. It is not accompanied by the hallucinations and delusions seen in acute mania. Three classic symptoms of hypomania are a euphoric but unstable mood, where an individual seems elated but can be easily distracted; increased motor activity, fidgeting and hyperactivity; and speech that is rapid or seems pressured.

Case studies on bipolar disorder have shown that a patient in a manic state feels euphoric and expansive, but can become easily irritated and has little emotional control. The individual may have been making elaborate plans, calling friends at all hours, engaging in spending sprees or inappropriate sexual encounters, or activities took a bizarre twist: strange dressing and excessive makeup; intrusive behavior: stopping strangers on the street and advising them.

We have learned much about how a depressive episode affects someone. Information on bipolar disorder has given us a glimpse into a world seemingly colored by grey, when overwhelming inertia and feelings of hopeless can make even getting out of bed seem impossible; where sadness and negativity are almost inescapable. Suicide is an ever-present risk, but more so as depression begins to lift. Increased emotional resolve may give the person the strength to carry out plans.

A connection also has been discovered between nutrient deficiencies and anxiety, depression, and mood fluctuation. In fact, case studies on bipolar disorder confirm that nutrient deficiencies are implicated in manic-depressive illness.

Modern supplements utilize specific neuronutrients that target chemical imbalances: omega 3 fatty acids, which stabilize mood; SAMe, which renders significant antidepressant effects; folic acid and B12, which help the brain to manufacture serotonin and other chemical messengers, and trace amounts of lithium, known to stabilize mood. Information on bipolar disorder is ongoing and greater understanding about the role deficiencies play helps in planning treatment.

It is always important to obtain qualified advice because case studies on bipolar disorder show that certain substances could trigger mania. Thankfully, treatments can restore and balance mood, helping an individual to get back on track.