What is bipolar disorder

Nov 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

Bipolar disorder is a common chronic mood disorder characterized by extreme and alternating mood states—elevated mood during manic episodes and depressed mood during depressive episodes—with possible return to normal mood between episodes. If significant mood swings, impulsive behaviors, or persistent low mood occur, prompt medical evaluation is recommended. During manic episodes, patients experience abnormally elevated mood.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic, recurrent mood disorder characterized primarily by alternating episodes of mania and depression. During episodes, cognitive and social functioning are severely impaired, although some patients may return to normal between episodes. If persistent mood swings, impulsive behaviors, or suicidal thoughts occur, prompt medical attention is recommended.

The causes of this disorder are closely related to genetic factors, neurotransmitter imbalances, and environmental stressors, with individuals having a family history at higher risk. Manic episodes are marked by elevated mood, racing thoughts, and impulsive spending, while depressive episodes involve low mood, loss of interest, and sleep disturbances. Some patients may also experience anxiety or physical discomfort.

Treatment centers on medication, with mood stabilizers commonly used to prevent mood fluctuations. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps improve thinking patterns, and in severe cases, physical treatments such as electroconvulsive therapy may be combined to rapidly control symptoms. Treatment should always follow an individualized approach.

Maintaining regular sleep schedules and avoiding staying up late, minimizing exposure to major life changes, engaging in gentle exercises such as walking or yoga, and communicating regularly with family and friends can help stabilize daily routines and support emotional regulation.

View All

The difference between Lurasidone Hydrochloride Tablets and Ziprasidone

The differences between lurasidone hydrochloride tablets and ziprasidone include different indications, distinct pharmacological mechanisms, different dosage forms and specifications, varying adverse reaction profiles, and differing contraindications. Both are antipsychotic medications and must be used strictly as prescribed by a physician. If severe discomfort or allergic reactions occur after taking the medication, prompt medical attention is recommended. Ziprasidone tablets are used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder depression.

View Full Answer

What is bipolar disorder, and can it be cured?

Bipolar disorder is a common chronic mood disorder characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression, accompanied by abnormalities in thinking and behavior. With standardized treatment and long-term management, the condition can be effectively controlled, allowing individuals to maintain normal daily functioning. If significant mood swings or abnormal behaviors occur, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

View Full Answer

What illness causes insomnia and hallucinations?

Insomnia and hallucinations may be caused by excessive mental stress, irregular作息 (daily routines), anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, etc. These symptoms can be improved through emotional regulation, maintaining regular作息 (daily routines), and medication. If symptoms persist or worsen, prompt medical attention is necessary. Prolonged exposure to high pressure keeps the brain's nervous system constantly tense, affecting sleep.

View Full Answer

Can sodium valproate sustained-release tablets be taken together with venlafaxine hydrochloride sustained-release tablets?

If a patient has comorbid conditions such as bipolar disorder, manic episodes, or treatment-resistant depression, and the physician, after comprehensive evaluation, determines that combination therapy can synergistically stabilize mood and improve symptoms, the starting doses and dose adjustment plans for both medications will be clearly defined. Liver and kidney function as well as electrolyte levels will be closely monitored. In such cases, the medications may be taken together as prescribed by the doctor.