Bipolar Disorder - Cause
The cause of bipolar disorder is not well understood, although evidence suggests that the disorder runs in families.3 Your living environment and family situation may also play a role in the disorder. Episodes of depression and mania may be caused by a problem with certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressant medicines can trigger a manic episode in a person who has bipolar disorder. But this may occur before someone is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, while he or she is seeking treatment for an episode of depression.
Bipolar Disorder and Sleep Problems
Changes in sleep that last for more than two weeks or interfere with your life can point to an underlying condition. Of course, many things may contribute to sleep problems. Here's what you need to know about the many connections between bipolar disorder and sleep and what you can do to improve your sleep.
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Sleep deprivation or substance abuse, including caffeine, can cause a person with bipolar disorder to have a manic episode.
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