Diagnosing bipolar disorder – Is a BPD test enough to determine the results?

With the advancements in the field of medical health, doctors have really come a long way in understanding and comprehending the different moods that are seen in people suffering from bipolar disorder. Even few years back, bipolar disorder was confused by doctors with other types of disorder like schizophrenia or unipolar depression or other forms of mental illnesses. As the doctors are better able to understand the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorders, doctors are better able to identify the symptoms of hypomania, mania and then treat them accordingly.

Nevertheless as we know that Bipolar is already difficult to diagnose with just the bipolar test that is available, doctors are still looking forward to more tests so that they can better tell you what exactly you’re suffering from. Read on to know more on diagnosing bipolar disorder.

What should a doctor know in order to diagnose BPD?

When a doctor has to diagnose bipolar disorder, he has to first pay careful attention to the symptoms which include the length, severity and frequency of the mood swings. If there are mood swings from moment to moment or day to day, this is not always the indication of bipolar disorder. Instead, the diagnosis will rest on having a longer time of irritable mood which are teamed with sleeplessness, sudden increased energy and fast thinking in relation to speech.

Apart from these tests, it is also important to get in touch with a psychiatrist or any other mental health professional who will ask you several questions on your family and personal history of bipolar disorder or any other type of mental illness. Due to the fact that bipolar disorder is sometimes due to heredity, it is vital to know your family history. Apart from this, the doctor will also ask you in detail on the bipolar symptom and can also focus on memory, reasoning, ability to stay in a relation and ability to express oneself.

Are there any other illnesses which share the same symptoms as of BPD?

Impulsive behavior and mood swings can often tell you about other forms of psychiatric disorders apart from BPD which include:

  • Borderline personality disorder
  • Substance abuse disorder
  • Impulse control disorder
  • Conduct disorder
  • Developmental disorder
  • Few anxiety disorders and
  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

So, if you’re someone who has been suffering from the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder, you should take into account the above listed tips and also get in touch with a professional.

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