Understanding Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a disorder of the brain that
alters the patient’s perception of reality. It
makes it difficult for the patient to
differentiate between real and imagination.
People suffering from schizophrenia finds it
difficult to even perform simple day to day
activities, and retreat into their shell away
from the outside world. Their actions are a
result of confusion and fear. 1 in 100 run the
lifetime risk of developing schizophrenia.
Generally, the signs of schizophrenia are
visible long before the first episode.
Some early warning signs include:
-Withdrawal from society
-Seeing and hearing things that are not there
-Hostility or suspiciousness
-Deterioration in personal hygiene
-Inability to express emotions like happy and
sad
-Inappropriate laugh or cry
-Depression
-Oversleeping or insomnia
-Irrational arguments
-Expressionless gaze
-Feeling of being watched continuously
Early warning signs, if detected, should lead
to immediate consultation with a doctor. If
these signs or symptoms are ignored or
improperly treated, the effects can be harmful
both to the patient as well as to the people
around him/her. It can lead to relationship
problems, alcohol and drug abuse and an
increased suicide risk. Schizophrenia can be
diagnosed by a full psychiatric evaluation,
medical history and physical exam, and lab
tests.
With proper medication, therapy and support,
a person suffering from Schizophrenia can
control his/her symptoms and lead a normal
life.
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