What Are The Causes of Bipolar Disorder?

The causes of bipolar disorder have puzzled scientists for some time. Research into the illness has unearthed many theories, but no one has been able to pinpoint the true cause of this malady that affects over two million Americans, with more being diagnosed each year.

The Makeup Of The Brain

Research has indicated that one of the causes of bipolar disorder could be a difference in the makeup of the brain in those who suffer from the illness. Apparently in these people, two important areas of the brain contain more of the cells that send signals to other parts of the brain. The theory is that these extra cells could lead to a type of over stimulation of the organ, which correlates with what is known about the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
The Role Of Genetics

Another theory states that one of the causes of bipolar disorder could be purely genetic. Extensive studies have taken place to support this theory, gathering information from the families of persons with the disorder. These studies show that the parents, children, brothers or sisters of a person who has bipolar disorder are usually more apt to have a mood disorder of one kind or another than the relatives of a person who does not suffer from the disease.

Digging deeper into the genetic puzzle, studies have found that identical twins, who share the same genetic makeup, also can share bipolar disorder. There is an 80 percent chance that if one identical twin has the disorder, the other twin will also be bipolar. This is strong evidence that there is a genetic element in action.

Exactly what role genetics plays in the causes of bipolar disorder is not certain, but researchers feel that imbalanced levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin in certain individuals can be linked to bipolar disorder. Other studies have revealed that the nerve cell receptors themselves could be overly sensitive in susceptible individuals, causing the disorder, but more research is needed to determine exactly what role they play in causing this devastating disorder.
Stressful Environment

Scientists also feel that one of the main factors that can precipitate bipolar disorder is a stress-filled life. Many things in life are stressful, but it all depends on the individual as to what events cause stress for them. What one person may find stressful, another person might thrive upon. Whatever the cause, it is believed that stress can bring on the beginnings of bipolar disorder in people who have never had the illness before. It seems that once it has started, bipolar disorder continues to flourish, nurtured by various physical and psychological means.

In Summary

To sum up what scientific research has discovered and understands to be true, the popular theory is that the causes of bipolar disorder should be fairly easy for the layman to grasp. A segment of the population is born with the genetic capability to develop this illness, and life’s stressful circumstances can be enough to set the stage for bipolar disorder. Once begun, the illness persists, growing worse over time, and can be controlled, but not cured, by medical intervention.

Rest assure the scientific community will continue their research on the causes of bipolar disease until hopefully one day a definite cause and effect pattern has been developed. Until then, theories will be tested and refined with high hopes for the future.

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