What Causes Bipolar Disorder

  Bipolar disease which is also known as Manic-depressive illness is a type of Psychiatric disorder. The illness is characterized by alterations in the moods and levels of energy, which in turn affect the day to day life of the patient. Not only is the illness quite progressive, but also recurs through out the life time. There may be normal periods in between the various recurrent episodes.

  Even though, over two million Americans are diagnosed with Bipolar disorder every year, the root cause of it is still unknown. This has become a puzzle for psychiatrists and scientists alike. Doctors still rely on some traditionally agreed-upon theories to combat manic depression. These theories propose the following causes of bipolar Disorder:

Genetic/Hereditary:
  It has been observed that a person is more likely to suffer from bipolar disorder if one of his immediate family members has bipolar. These studies suggest that immediate relations like parents, twin siblings and children of a patient are more likely to inherit this illness. Though, exact role of genetics cannot be ascertained, researchers believe that an imbalance in the levels of neurotransmitters like Serotonin and Dopamine in some people can be linked with manic depression. The alterations in the normal concentrations of norepinephrine have also been linked to this disease, with increased levels of this chemical in the brain leading to manic attacks, and lowering of the levels below normal can give rise to depression. Some studies show that susceptible persons have an over sensitive nerve cell receptors inherited from their parents. But there is still a long way to go before the exact relation of genetics and bipolar disorder can be established.

Brain Makeup:
  Studies have shown that a person suffering from bipolar disorder has a slightly different brain composition compared to that of a normal person. In these patients, two key brain areas have more concentration of signal-sending cells. These cells are used to transfer information to other parts in the brain. This theory further speculates that excess of these cells can lead to over stimulation of the brain and thus cause bipolar disorder. Even this theory needs to be ascertained with more facts and research.

Environmental Factors:
  A person who is living a stressful life is more prone to bipolar disorder. It is believed that stress is a crucial initial factor which triggers this disease. Especially, in present times, people lead a very hectic life with little time to rejuvenate or connect with themselves.  Past experiences and social conditions can also manifest in to a bipolar disorder.

  The precise cause of bipolar disorder is still debatable. It is a wide spread disease but these theories certainly do provide a direction for further research. A large portion of population is vulnerable to this disease because of a combination of the genetic and environmental factors. Once signs of bipolar are evident its best to seek professional help as Bipolar can only become worse over a period of time. Though extensive medications and treatments are available, they can only control but not cure Bipolar.