Bipolar type I is one of the disease in the bipolar spectrum. Bipolar type I is the condition once known, according to Medline Plus, as manic depression; bipolar type I is thought to be the most severe bipolar disorder, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Identification

The broad criteria for a diagnosis of bipolar type I include a history of one full manic episode or a mixed episode, which has manic and depressive elements, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Features

Bipolar disorder I can be diagnosed even in the absence of a past fully depressive episode, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Manic Symptoms

The symptoms of a manic episode, according to Medline Plus, include agitation, irritation and losing temper, having an elevated mood (including racing thoughts and loss of self-control), overly high self-esteem, decreased sleep, being reckless and becoming distracted easily. Medline Plus reports that these symptoms are less severe in other types of bipolar disorder than in bipolar I.

Depressive Symptoms

The symptoms of an episode of depression are common among types of bipolar disorder and include, according to Medline Plus: problems with concentration, memory and decision-making, under- or overeating, tiredness and sleeping too much or too little, feeling unworthy, hopeless and guilty, decreased self-esteem, sadness and thought about death that won't go away as well as withdrawing from activities and people.

Treatment

A large number of drugs are used in the treatment of bipolar disorders, including bipolar type 1, and doctors and patients can work together to find a treatment that works. Other treatments for bipolar disorder include psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy and hospitalization, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Source:

Medline Plus: Bipolar Disorder

Mayo Clinic: Bipolar Disorder Tests and Diagnosis

Mayo Clinic: Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

More Information:

Mayo Clinic: Bipolar Disorder Treatments and Drugs