Bipolar disorder and chronic pain are two complex conditions connected in several ways. They are treated as separate issues but influence each other at some points. One must know the connection between these conditions to treat and manage them effectively. In this blog, we will discuss the relationship between bipolar and chronic pain to deal with these illnesses.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
It is a mental problem in which a person experiences unusual mood swings that include high and low emotions. This affects the daily life of a person in several ways. The mood swings are usually unpredictable and create issues in maintaining a quality life.
Symptoms
Hypomanic Episodes
- Irritability
- Increased energy
- Less sleep
- Impulsive Behaviour
Depressive Episodes
- Sad Feeling
- Low energy
- Difficulty in concentration
How Chronic Pain Occurs?
Chronic pain is a sharp, stabbing sensation that persists for days, months, and even years. Many reasons or medical illnesses can cause chronic pain. Any damage to muscle, bone, and nerves leads to long-term pain, even after treatment. Diseases such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or cancer can cause this pain. Post-surgical pain can sometimes become chronic. These pains also cause psychological illness.
The person becomes irritated due to intense pain and has mood disorders. The constant sensation of pain is harmful to the mental health of the person, and anxiety can also occur. The person can not have a normal lifestyle and suffers social distancing issues, less energy, and hopelessness. Most people with chronic pain experience insomnia and fatigue, which leads to restlessness. The burden of pain can cause depression issues and long-term effects on mental health.
Chronic Pain and Bipolar Disorder Connection
Research shows that people with bipolar disorder experience chronic pain more often than normal people. Conversely, chronic pain can cause mental issues, and one of them is bipolar disorder. There is a bidirectional relationship between depressive episodes of bipolar disorder and pain. This connection can create a challenging cycle. Chronic pain can exaggerate the mood swings associated with bipolar disorder, and mood instability can increase the perception of pain.
Biological and Psychological Factors
Both factors explain the interplay between bipolar disorder and chronic pain.
- Bipolar disorder and pain involve dysregulation of serotonin and dopamine. These hormones regulate the mood and pain perception.
- Chronic pain often involves inflammatory processes, which can also affect mood regulation, leading to depressive symptoms.
- The psychological management of chronic pain can affect mood swings, leading to a cycle of worsening mental health and pain perception.
How to Deal with Pain in Bipolar Disorder?
Pain management in the context of bipolar disorder involves physical and mental health. Here are several strategies that can help:
Integrated Treatment
Go to a doctor that can cure mental disorders as well as pain. Chronic pain can be due to the worsening of bipolar symptoms, or it can also occur because of underlying medical conditions that can cause bipolar disorder due to irritability and mood swings. Your healthcare consultant must be able to find the connection between your pain and bipolar symptoms to treat both of them at the same time.
Medications
Pain Management
Take pain relief medicines like non-opioid pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, or antidepressants that can help manage both pain and mood.
Mood stabilizers can also help manage bipolar symptoms, as they can also contribute to pain relief. However, it is compulsory for these stabilizers or relievers to be prescribed by a certified doctor.
Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy addresses both chronic pain and bipolar disorder. CBT helps develop coping strategies, manage stress, and change negative thought patterns. Also, meditation and deep breathing exercises can relieve symptoms of bipolar disorder and manage the pain.
Lifestyle Changes
Try activities like walking, swimming, or cycling. Exercise causes the release of endorphins that improve mood and reduce pain, too. A balanced diet can also help you. Eat Anti-inflammatory foods to reduce chronic pain caused by your bipolar illness. Also, good sleep habits are necessary to combat insomnia and fatigue.
Conclusion
The link between bipolar and chronic pain is complex but has an impact. The treatment of both conditions involves recognizing this connection to address both mental health and pain management needs. Healthcare providers and therapists can help give a quality life despite the challenges posed by bipolar disorder and chronic pain.
