Bipolar affective disorder Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, November 2008.
Answers to questions about bipolar disorder
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Can bipolar disorder be cured?
- What is ECT and is it used to treat bipolar disorder?
- Can I drive if I have bipolar disorder?
Can bipolar disorder be cured?
Bipolar disorder can be controlled so you no longer have symptoms.
Explanation
Bipolar disorder is a varied condition which affects people in different ways. People can recover spontaneously from bipolar disorder without treatment and it's difficult to research because of this. Nine out of 10 people who have a manic episode will have a further episode of bipolar disorder but this may not be for a period of time. Only about two in every 10 people have rapid cycling bipolar disorder in which people have regular episodes of bipolar disorder each year.
You will always be vulnerable to symptoms if you have had an episode. You may not though always have bipolar symptoms if you find the correct way to manage it to prevent an episode occurring.
Sources
- Bipolar affective disorder. Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN). May 2005. www.sign.ac.uk, accessed 1 January 2008
- " Bipolar disorder: the management of bipolar disorder in adults, children and adolescents, in primary and secondary care. National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) July 2006 www.nice.org.uk/guidance
What is ECT and is it used to treat bipolar disorder?
ECT is electroconvulsive therapy. It's not routinely used in the treatment of bipolar disorder but may be suggested by your psychiatrist if you have severe mania or depression.
Explanation
ECT is when an electrical current is passed across your brain in a controlled way to cause a convulsion. You would have an anaesthetic so you feel no pain. There is controversy surrounding this treatment and there may be side-effects such as memory loss. This is only used for severe bipolar disorder and should be discussed with your psychiatrist. You would need to consent to this type of treatment before it can be given.
Sources
- Bipolar disorder: the management of bipolar disorder in adults, children and adolescents, in primary and secondary care. National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) July 2006 www.nice.org.uk/guidance
- Electroconvulsive therapy. The Royal College of Psychiatrists. www.rcpsych.ac.uk, accessed 26 October 2007
Can I drive if I have bipolar disorder?
If you have bipolar disorder you are not prevented from driving unless you have had four or more mood swings in a 12-month period. If you have, you shouldn't drive for at least six months until your bipolar disorder is under control.
Explanation
Most people will be able to drive. If you are experiencing a manic or depressive episode you shouldn't drive as you may put yourself or others at risk. You should also tell the DVLA and your insurance company about any medical condition you have.
You should also check the side-effects of the medicines you are taking. Read the instruction leaflet which comes with your medicine to see if it affects your ability to drive. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Sources
- Driving. MDF The Bipolar Organisation. www.mdf.org.uk, accessed 26 October 2007
- Psychiatric disorders. DVLA. www.dvla.gov.uk, accessed 17 April 2008
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: November 2008
Bipolar affective disorder factsheet
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