In general, it cannot be said that bipolar disorder necessarily worsens with age, but it is possible to experience changes in the frequency and severity of its episodes as people age. Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by episodes of drastic changes in mood, from mania to depression.
Although it affects people of all ages, there are some questions about how bipolar disorder changes as people age. In fact, one of the main concerns is whether bipolar disorder worsens with age. In this Psychology-Online article, we will talk about the evolution of bipolar disorder in the different stages of life, from childhood to old age, and we will explain the most common symptoms at each stage.
Does bipolar disorder get worse with age?
It is a chronic disease that affects people’s mood and is characterized by episodes of mania and depression. The severity of episodes can vary over time and will depend on several factors, such as the severity of the disorder, adherence to treatment, social support, and the person’s lifestyle.
In general, It cannot be said that bipolar disorder worsens with age. However, individuals with bipolar disorder may experience changes in the frequency, duration, and severity of their episodes as they age. For example, manic episodes may be less frequent but more severe in older people with bipolar disorder.
It is also important to note that seniors may be taking other medications that may interact with bipolar disorder medications, which may affect the effectiveness of treatment. For this reason, it is important for older people with bipolar disorder to work closely with their doctor to manage their illness and adjust their treatment as necessary.
Evolution of bipolar disorder with age
Although bipolar disorder can appear at any age, the symptoms and severity can vary depending on the stage of life in which it manifests. Next, we’ll see if bipolar disorder gets worse with age:
Childhood
During childhood, bipolar disorder is usually difficult to detect and diagnose. Children with this mental illness may show the following symptoms.
- Persistent and irritable mood.
- Agitation.
- Aggression and impulsivity.
- Sudden mood swings.
- Sleeping problems.
- Difficulty concentrating on schoolwork.
Often at this age, bipolar disorder is confused with other disorders, such as ADHD.
Adolescence
It is common to wonder what a bipolar person is like during adolescence. At this stage, this disorder manifests itself with episode of depression and maniain which these symptoms manifest themselves:
- Risky behavior.
- Rapid mood swings.
- Irritability.
- Insomnia.
- Fatigue.
- Difficulty paying attention or concentrating, due to the difficulty they have in following the rules.
It is a complicated stage to establish a diagnosis, since it is difficult to differentiate the disorder’s own behavior from emotional changes that the adolescent experiences. It is important to note that, due to bipolar disorder, there is a greater risk that the adolescent will have difficulties establishing interpersonal relationships and that he will be prone to depressive episodes.
Adulthood
In adulthood, symptoms of bipolar disorder They can manifest themselves in a similar way as occurs in the previous stages described, but they can become more intense and frequent. Specifically, it usually manifests itself in the following way:
- Manic and depressive episodes.
- Sleep disorders.
- Work or financial problems.
- Problems in your interpersonal relationships.
- Risk of comorbidity with other mental illnesses, such as and substance abuse.
Old age
During a bipolar person’s old age, symptoms may worsen, due to physiological changes and a greater prevalence of medical and psychiatric comorbidities. So, what traits does a bipolar person have in the old age stage?
- Changes in your mood more intense than in your youth.
- Cognitive problems.
- Physical problems.
- Social isolation.
- Difficulty falling asleep.
What makes bipolar disorder worse? Older people with bipolar disorder may experience similar symptoms and have difficulties in complying with treatmentdue to memory problems or medication side effects.
Does bipolar disorder affect life expectancy?
As a chronic mental illness, bipolar disorder can have a significant impact on the quality of life of people who suffer from it, as well as their life expectancy. In general, people with bipolar disorder have been shown to have a shorter life expectancy than the general populationbut this is due to many factors, not just the disease itself.
Studies have shown that People with bipolar disorder have a higher risk of chronic conditionssuch as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, lung diseases and strokes.
These illnesses can be a direct result of bipolar disorder as well as lifestyle factors, such as alcohol use, smoking, an unhealthy diet, or lack of exercise. Additionally, people with bipolar disorder also have a higher risk of suicide and self-harmwhich can reduce your life expectancy.
Does bipolar disorder treatment affect life expectancy?
Treatment of bipolar disorder can also affect the life expectancy of people who suffer from it. Some medicines used are effective in controlling symptoms, but may have long term side effects. Here are some examples:
- Antipsychotic medications: They can increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
- Mood stabilizing medicationslike lithium, can have toxic effects on the kidney and thyroid, which can reduce life expectancy.
Additionally, bipolar disorder also may affect treatment adherence and to appropriate medical care. In this sense, people with bipolar disorder may have difficulty staying on a consistent treatment regimen, due to the fluctuating nature of the illness. This can lead to relapses, increase the risk of health complications, and decrease life expectancy.
Ultimately, bipolar disorder can have a significant impact on the life expectancy of people who suffer from it. Living a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise and support, can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve quality of life.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
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