Understanding Schizophrenia: A Modern Family Physician's Guide

Overview

Schizophrenia, often referred to as "paleophrenia," is a complex mental disorder characterized by a disintegration of thought, emotion, and behavior, leading to a detachment from reality. This article, adapted from Chinese medical guidance, provides an informative overview of schizophrenia, including its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures.

Causes of Schizophrenia

The exact cause of schizophrenia remains unclear, but genetics play a significant role. Approximately 80% of patients have a genetic predisposition, and scientists have identified specific genes associated with the disease. Environmental and social factors, such as migration, family changes, and social competition, can also trigger the onset of schizophrenia. Smoking and dietary changes have been linked to an increased risk and earlier onset of the disease.

Symptoms of Schizophrenia

Common symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, emotional flatness, odd behavior, cognitive disturbances, and a lack of concern for others. Patients may become apathetic, reduce their activities, and exhibit aimless lifestyles. They often deny their illness and may resist treatment.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive assessment, including physical and neurological examinations, blood and urine tests, and imaging studies. Wristband technology can assist in monitoring mental health conditions. Schizophrenia should be differentiated from other conditions such as acute infectious精神病, acute intoxication, mania-depression, and perimenopausal psychosis.

Treatment Options

Medication

Antipsychotic medications are the cornerstone of treatment. Commonly prescribed drugs include haloperidol, chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, risperidone, olanzapine, clozapine, and aripiprazole. Dosages and administration routes vary based on the patient's condition.

Physical Treatments

Insulin coma therapy and electroconvulsive therapy are occasionally used, primarily for patients with catatonia, depression, or acute agitation.

General Management

Encouraging patients to actively fight their illness, providing care for potential accidents, and addressing nutritional needs are crucial. Psychotherapy and rehabilitation strategies, such as vocational training and social activities, can also be beneficial.

Psychological Treatment

Building positive relationships with patients, encouraging participation in cultural and sports activities, and implementing non-pharmacological treatments like art therapy and music therapy can aid recovery.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine views schizophrenia as a result of phlegm-heat disturbance or yin injury. Treatments may include calming the heart, purging phlegm, and clearing heat, as well as nourishing yin and calming the mind. Medications such as Scutellaria baicalensis and Datura metel may be used.

Prevention

Preventing schizophrenia involves early detection and treatment, genetic counseling, and avoiding pregnancy during active symptoms in patients of childbearing age, especially in those with a family history of the disease.

Conclusion

Schizophrenia is a challenging mental disorder with a complex etiology. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for effective management. By combining various treatment approaches and considering the individual needs of patients, healthcare providers can help improve the quality of life for individuals with schizophrenia.