HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

Early symptoms can cause a patient to have problems sleeping or to have a heightened sensitivity to sound and light. Other symptoms include depression and suicidal thoughts.

What Causes Schizophrenia?

There is still much debate about the causes of Schizophrenia. Some patients might be genetically predisposed to it as it can sometimes run in families. The illness can also become apparent when a person is under a lot of stress or it can sometimes occur during pregnancy.

Some experts believe that Schizophrenia is caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters; the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin are thought to place a part in the development of this psychotic disorder. Often, when drugs are given to rebalance these neurotransmitters, the patient will begin to experience some relief from their condition.

In addition, recreational drugs, specifically Cocaine, are thought to play a role in the likelihood of a person developing Schizophrenia. The older the addict, the worse the symptoms become which can also include delusions of grandeur and narcissistic qualities.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis can be made by a GP. They will ask about the symptoms and about the lifestyle habits of the patient; they will refer the patient to a community support team to help them better manage their condition. Although there is still a stigma attached to mental illness, it is vital that a person with symptoms of Schizophrenia go to their doctor as soon as possible as this is a condition that is better treated sooner rather than later. With adequate professional care and attention, patients can live a normal life.

Who is Susceptible to Schizophrenia?

Both men and women are equally susceptible to Schizophrenia. It is common in younger patients and symptoms can sometimes become apparent as a person reaches their mid-teens. Schizophrenia is generally more common in patients aged from 15-35.

It can be caused by drug use and times of stress can also act as a trigger for some people.

Can it be Treated?

As disturbing as many of the symptoms of Schizophrenia can be, there are effective treatments available. The main focus of therapy will be medication; anti-psychotic drugs will be prescribed to help normalise levels of Dopamine. These can work quickly to address some of the symptoms such as anxiety, but will often take longer to address delusional thoughts and hallucinations.

The medications are not without their side effects; many patients report having a dry mouth, blurred vision or sleepiness as a result of taking the drugs. They might also cause tremors or muscle spasms.

A patient with Schizophrenia will also be assigned a community care team to help support them while they recover. This will involve working with social workers, psychotherapists and other medical experts to ensure that the patient gets the best care possible.

Other therapies might also be suggested. Counselling or Cognitive Behaviour Therapy are often used as part of the treatment process.

Can it be Cured?

People with Schizophrenia do get better and can go for long periods of time without experiencing any symptoms at all. The condition can be managed; however, it is important that the patient receives the care and support that they need in order to keep their symptoms under control.

It is also likely that a patient with Schizophrenia will need to stay on medication and it is essential that the person suffering from Schizophrenia knows the early signs and symptoms to look out for so that they can get help as soon as possible should they relapse.

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