Secondary mania

Secondary Mania is a type of mania that is not primarily associated with bipolar disorder, but rather, is a symptom or consequence of another medical condition or substance use. It is characterized by an elevated or irritable mood, increased energy or activity, and other symptoms that are not due to another mental disorder, a medication, or a drug of abuse.

Causes

Secondary mania can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, including brain injury, stroke, brain tumor, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, HIV/AIDS, and syphilis. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as corticosteroids, levodopa, and antidepressants, as well as by drugs of abuse, such as cocaine and amphetamines.

Symptoms

The symptoms of secondary mania are similar to those of primary mania, and can include elevated or irritable mood, increased energy or activity, decreased need for sleep, grandiosity or inflated self-esteem, rapid or pressured speech, racing thoughts, distractibility, increased involvement in goal-directed activities or risky behaviors, and psychosis in severe cases.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of secondary mania is made based on the presence of manic symptoms that are not better explained by another mental disorder, a medication, or a drug of abuse, and the presence of a medical condition or substance use that is known to cause mania. The diagnosis can be challenging, as it requires a thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation, and the exclusion of other potential causes of the symptoms.

Treatment

The treatment of secondary mania involves treating the underlying medical condition or stopping the use of the substance that is causing the symptoms. In addition, medications such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines may be used to manage the manic symptoms. Psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and family therapy, can also be helpful.

See also

• Mania
• Bipolar disorder
• Mood disorder