Schizophrenia

Grappling with Schizophrenia is scary and confusing. A certain relief may be experienced to learn the diagnostic label for this psychiatric illness. However, the moment is fleeting upon hearing there is no conventional medical cure for Schizophrenia.

It is encouraging that some people have beaten the brain disorder. Others manage to control its debilitating symptoms and independently function in society.

If you or a family member has been diagnosed with Schizophrenia, it is good to gather information concerning treatment options and how to identify signs and symptoms. You might consider joining a group of people who are also trying to get a grasp on this debilitating disease.

Schizophrenia – What Is It?

Schizophrenia is a lifelong brain disorder that affects thinking, behavior and the way things are experienced. Individuals with the disorder experience a distorted reality and frequently lose contact with reality. Of the main mental illnesses, Schizophrenia is the most disabling.

What are Symptoms of Schizophrenia?

Symptoms will vary according to the individual. However, the disease is characterized by common symptoms:

• Delusions – things unreal appear real

• Hallucinations – hear voices or see, smell, taste things not present in everyday reality

• Bizarre Behavior – peculiar thinking, strange speech

• Absence of Emotional Expression – apathy and/or inappropriate feelings

Schizophrenia – What Causes It?

Just as there is no cure, there is no known root cause. Research has shown the disorder tends to run in families, so the likelihood of a genetic cause exists.

Ongoing studies suggest there could be a correlation to malfunctioning genes that produce significant chemicals in the brain, which are responsible for the d...

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... with antipsychotics.

What are Potential Side-Effects of Antipsychotic Drugs?

Side-effects vary depending on the individual, treatment phase and specific medication. Here is a general list of potential side-effects:

• Dizziness when moving positions

• Contraction of muscles

• Weight gain

• Drowsiness

• Accelerated heartbeat

• Blurry vision

• Sun sensitivity and/or skin rashes

• Restlessness

Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) is a serious side-effect associated with long-term use of typical antipsychotic meds. It is characterized by involuntary, jerky movements of the face, jaw, tongue, trunk and limbs. TD sometimes resolves with discontinuation of the drug.

Be mindful life goes on, even after a diagnosis of Schizophrenia. By maintaining a positive attitude and complying with their treatment programs, many individuals with this brain disorder are leading meaningful lives.