- What causes schizophrenia?
The exact cause of schizophrenia is not known. Some studies have shown that schizophrenia has a high genetic cause. When a person is susceptible to developing schizophrenia, triggers such as stress or certain drugs can precipitate a full episode.
2. What genes play a role?
The mode by which schizophrenia is passed by genes is complex and no particular one gene is implicated. However, chromosome 22 microdeletion is implicated in some research studies.
3.If my family member has schizophrenia do I have an increased risk?
In the normal population about 1 in a 100 people develop schizophrenia. Ie., 1 % of the population. However, this risk is increased to 10% if blood relatives suffer from schizophrenia. The closer the family member is (such as identical twin), the higher the risk.
4.What are the triggers of schizophrenia?
The triggers for schizophrenia include stress such as loss of job, divorce, death in family or abuse.
5.Who is at risk of schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia usually starts in early adulthood between ages of 18 and 25. However it can start later too. This occurrence is known as Late Onset Schizophrenia.
6.What drugs cause schizophrenia?
It is now known that youngsters who smoke cannabis are more likely to develop schizophrenia in later life.
Some drugs such as amphetamines, LSD and cannabis will precipitate the start of schizophrenia.
7.Can neurotransmitter changes cause schizophrenia?
Neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin are implicated in the development of schizophrenia.
The antipsychotic medications act by correcting the levels of dopamine in the brain pathways and thus controlling the symptoms.
8.Can brain development cause schizophrenia?
It is known that there are structural changes in the brain in a person with schizophrenia and these changes are present from birth. Low birth weight is also seen as a cause for schizophrenia.
9.Which vitamin deficiency is implicated in schizophrenia?
There is evidence to note that levels of Vitamin D is less in people with schizophrenia.
The exact cause is unknown but it is useful to assess Vitamin D levels as part of schizophrenia assessment and take nutritional supplements for the same.
10.Omega 3 and schizophrenia association
Omega 3 as a supplement helps with several mental health conditions. Omega 3 in the form of dietary fish intake and supplements help in the wider management of schizophrenia along with antipsychotic medications.
