What is Schizophrenia?

SCHIZOPHRENIA

The term “Psychosis” is a term for a mental state involving loss of contact with reality.  This is seen as odd behavior where a person would have talking to self, paranoid beliefs, and/or disorganized speech or actions.

Among the psychotic disorders, schizophrenia is the most commonly known.    However, there are other psychotic disorders recognized depending the number and quality of symptoms, duration of illness and co-morbid conditions.

What is Schizophrenia? 

People with schizophrenia suffer terrifying symptoms.  They often hear voices which others don't  (auditory hallucinations).  These voices may be commanding, ordering them to hurt themselves or hurt others, or they may be derogatory in nature (often insulting them).   They may also have fixed false beliefs or delusions that other people are plotting to harm them or talking about them.   Thus, they appear scared or the opposite, assaultive.  Other symptoms observed are disorganized behavior which may be frightening to others.  Catatonia, seen as a person unmoving or resisting efforts to be moved, may also be seen.

What causes Schizophrenia? 

The causes of Schizophrenia are unknown.    However, research has singled out several factors which are linked to cause schizophrenia. Genetic and environmental factors trigger the disease.

-        Genetics – The likelihood  of  developing schizophrenia increases as more family members have  the  same  disease.    Recently, specific chromosomes are identified as carriers of the gene for schizophrenia.

-        Neurobiology – Changes in brain structure and excessive brain chemicals or neurotransmitters (e.g. dopamine) have been noted to be present among patients with schizophrenia.

-        Substance Use -   Prolonged use of cocaine and methamphetamine (commonly known as “shabu”) may lead to permanent changes in brain structure and chemistry.  If psychotic symptoms persist despite cessation of illicit drug use, a diagnosis of schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders is warranted.

-        Environmental factors – Poverty, family dysfunction, employment and other life stressors, if inadequately coped with, may trigger psychosis.

Treatment of Schizophrenia

Use of medications to address the chemical imbalance in the brain is most necessary to control symptoms of schizophrenia.  These medications are called anti-psychotics or neuroleptics.   In the earlier years, these medicines were wrought with side effects which are debilitating themselves. However, newer medicines are now being used which make compliance better and subsequently improve functioning for patients suffering from schizophrenia. Psychotherapy, when done with medications, improves patient's insight reducing the risk of severe relapse.

It is often difficult to accept that you or your loved one may suffer from Schizophrenia.  However, with help from mental health professionals and the support from family members, the road to recovery may be within your reach.

References:

Kaplan and Saddock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 9th Edition

Department of Psychiatry, The Medical City

Note:   This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advise, diagnosis or treatment.   If you or someone you know have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is advisable to seek professional help.

The Medical City offers a roster of competent psychiatrists who may help diagnose and manage anyone suffering from psychotic disorders.

For inquiries, you may call:

The Medical City - Department of Psychiatry

Out-Patient Clinic

Tel. No. (632) 689-8278 / (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 ext. 6132 / 6133