Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis
How will your doctor diagnose you with this condition? Learn about the tests, exams, processes, and other information relating to the diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder below.
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How to Diagnose Bipolar Disorder
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam may be done. In some cases, lab tests are ordered. They will help to rule out other causes of mood and behavior symptoms. You may be referred to a mental health specialist. Diagnosis of bipolar disorder is based on:
- Presence of symptoms over time
- Absence of other causes, such as some medications, thyroid disease, or Parkinson's Disease
- Family history of bipolar disorder
Mania is diagnosed if:
- Mood is elevated and there are three or more mania symptoms (listed above)
- If the mood is irritable, not elevated, four symptoms must be present for a diagnosis of mania
- Symptoms last during most of the day, nearly every day, for one week or longer
A depressive episode is diagnosed if:
- There are five or more of the depressive symptoms (listed above)
- Symptoms last for most of the day, nearly every day, for a period of two weeks or longer
Some medicines and other medical issues may show similar features such as:
- Corticosteroids
- Thyroid disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
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Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor
implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A
MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment
or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright ©2013 EBSCO Publishing All rights
reserved. Source: EBSCO
