Treatment Options For Schizoaffective Disorder

Schizoaffective disorder can be challenging to diagnose and treat, as there are usually underlying reasons and conditions to the disorder. Patients will be subjected to a physical exam as well as various tests and screenings, like CT scans and imaging, which will help rule out underlying conditions. One of the most critical tests done is a psychiatric evaluation. A mental health professional will perform various evaluations to get an idea of any substance abuse, hallucinations, delusions, suicidal ideations, and other aspects like demeanor and appearance that may be at work. All of these tests give a doctor a complete picture of the patient's health. It will help rule out certain conditions and come to a conclusion of schizoaffective disorder. Of course, it is crucial to treat schizoaffective disorder as soon as possible. Get to know the treatments used after diagnosis now.

Mood-Stabilizing Medication

Mood-stabilizing medication can help treat schizoaffective disorder when it is the bipolar type, as these medications can help level out the depressive moods and manic episodes associated with the condition. Individuals with the bipolar variety of schizoaffective disorder can go through periods where they are in a high-energy manic stage and their decision-making is compromised. Conversely, many individuals with the condition can suffer from debilitating depressive episodes, which can make it impossible to function in daily life. Medication can help pull patients out of these episodes and return them to a more normal state of mind. However, as with many medications, there are side effects, including constipation, headaches, drowsiness, fogginess, and fatigue. It may take time for doctors to figure out which mood stabilizer will work best for each patient. Doctors have to consider what other medical conditions a patient might have and what other medications they are taking. It is important for them to determine if there will be drug interaction and if medications will work well together. Furthermore, it is important to consider the side effects and whether the patient is prone to them.

Keep reading to learn more about treating schizoaffective disorder now.