[18F] Experiencing severe mood swings and psychosis
Patient Description
An 18-year-old female has been experiencing extreme mood swings for the past month, occurring several times a day. These mood swings include periods of short-lived happiness followed by feelings of sadness, anger, and fatigue. The patient has undergone several traumatic events recently but hasn't noticed any specific patterns triggering these mood swings. She has a history of depression and anxiety and finds it challenging to maintain her daily activities and responsibilities. Her sleep patterns have been chaotic, ranging from sleeping too much to not sleeping for two nights in a row. Her appetite has also been erratic, with a tendency to eat less but still feel like she wants more even when she's full. The patient has experienced hallucinations and delusions, along with years of schizophrenic symptoms. Her energy levels fluctuate between feeling extremely energetic and unusually fatigued. She uses substances such as weed, nicotine, and occasionally alcohol. She has a family history of mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression. Her menstrual cycle has always been irregular. In terms of her medical history, she has high blood pressure and IBS, both diagnosed seven years ago. She is allergic to ibuprofen and is currently taking herbal diet pills and Opill birth control.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the symptoms and history you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your condition:
Bipolar Disorder
- Rationale: Your extreme mood swings, ranging from periods of happiness to sadness, anger, and fatigue, are characteristic of bipolar disorder. This condition often involves episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated mood and energy) followed by depressive episodes.
- Typical Treatments: Treatment usually involves mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and psychotherapy. A psychiatrist can provide a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
Schizoaffective Disorder
- Rationale: Given your history of schizophrenic symptoms, hallucinations, and delusions, along with mood swings, schizoaffective disorder is another possibility. This condition includes symptoms of both schizophrenia and mood disorders.
- Typical Treatments: Treatment often includes antipsychotic medications, mood stabilizers, and psychotherapy. A mental health professional can help determine the best course of action.
Depression and Anxiety
- Rationale: Your history of depression and anxiety, combined with recent traumatic events, could be exacerbating your mood swings and other symptoms.
- Typical Treatments: Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and therapy are common treatments. A mental health professional can help tailor a treatment plan to your needs.
What you can do
Extreme Mood Swings and Mental Health Concerns
- Seek Immediate Help: Given your thoughts of self-harm and the severity of your symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate help. Contact a mental health professional, your primary care doctor, or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Medication Management: Consult with a healthcare provider about your current medications, including the herbal diet pills and Opill birth control, to ensure they are not contributing to your symptoms.
- Therapy: Engage in regular therapy sessions to help manage your mood swings and address underlying issues. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are often effective.
- Lifestyle Changes: Maintain a regular sleep schedule, eat a balanced diet, and engage in regular physical activity. Avoid substances like weed, nicotine, and alcohol, as they can exacerbate mood swings.
High Blood Pressure and IBS
- Monitor Your Health: Keep track of your blood pressure and IBS symptoms. Make sure to follow any treatment plans prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Diet and Exercise: A healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage both high blood pressure and IBS. Avoid foods that trigger your IBS symptoms and consider a low-sodium diet for blood pressure management.
General Well-being
- Symptom Journal: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and get insights. This can be helpful for you and your healthcare provider to understand your condition better.
- Support System: Lean on friends, family, or support groups for emotional support. Sharing your experiences can help alleviate some of the emotional burden.
What you should look out for
Given the severity of your symptoms and the potential for life-threatening conditions, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:
- Worsening Hallucinations or Delusions: If these symptoms become more frequent or severe.
- Increased Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicide: If you feel you are at immediate risk, go to the nearest emergency room or call a crisis hotline.
- Severe Mood Swings: If your mood swings become more intense or unmanageable.
- Physical Symptoms: Any new or worsening physical symptoms, such as chest pain, severe headaches, or significant changes in weight.
Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, I am not a doctor. It's essential to consult with real health professionals to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to continue the conversation.
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6 mo ago
