Physical Body Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

by Keith Vaughn

Overview

Bipolar disorder, which is sometimes referred to as manic depression, is characterized by pronounced, unpredictable mood swings. There are several different types of bipolar disorder.
Physical Body Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Types

The different types of bipolar disorder are bipolar I, bipolar II, cyclothymic disorder, rapid-cycling bipolar disorder and mixed bipolar disorder. Each type involves a degree of manic and depressive episodes.
Depressive Symptoms

Physical symptoms of depressive episodes can include diminished energy, crying, hypersomnia and greatly increased or diminished appetite.
Manic Symptoms

The physical symptoms of a manic episode may include restlessness, increased energy, talking very quickly, insomnia and impulsive involvement in high-risk activities.
Co-existing Illnesses

Those with bipolar disorder are at an increased risk of thyroid disease, heart disease, diabetes and obesity. Some people with bipolar disorder may self-medicate with drugs and alcohol, developing dependencies on such drugs, which in turn exacerbate their bipolar symptoms.
Chronic Pain

Another type of physical symptom of bipolar disorder is chronic pain resulting from migraine headaches and stomach aches.