Paranoid schizophrenia: what is it, symptoms, treatment

Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition, and paranoid schizophrenia is a form of schizophrenia. Here the patient thinks he is being cornered. There is a strong sense of paranoia that something is going wrong against them. Symptoms may also include hallucinations and delusions. It is very important to understand the symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia as early as possible in order to receive the right treatment. Read on to learn more about this condition, why it happens, its symptoms, and treatment.

What is paranoid schizophrenia?

Paranoid schizophrenia is a subtype of schizophrenia in which the patient experiences paranoia. however, the American Psychiatric Association declared the term obsolete in 2013. It now recognizes it as one of the symptoms of schizophrenia and lists it under psychosis.

Paranoid schizophrenia is a form of schizophrenia in which individuals have strong, unfounded beliefs that they are being cornered or that great plots are being planned against them, and they often hear voices that others do not hear. “These experiences are called delusions and auditory hallucinations. People with paranoid schizophrenia may not experience the obvious speech or behavioral problems seen in other forms of schizophrenia, allowing them to function somewhat better in everyday life,” says psychiatrist Dr Ajit Dandekar.

Causes of paranoid schizophrenia

Schizophrenia has no specific cause. However, several factors may be at play in a person being diagnosed with schizophrenia or paranoid schizophrenia. Here are some of the factors:

1. Chemical Imbalances

Imbalances in brain chemistry can also lead to paranoid schizophrenia. The brain uses chemicals to communicate with brain cells, and if there is an imbalance it can cause a problem. An imbalance between neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin can cause schizophrenia. A study published in Frontiers in psychiatry, reports dopamine as an inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in the pathology of schizophrenia. This means that if a patient is diagnosed with schizophrenia, there will be dopamine abnormalities in the prefrontal areas of the brain.

Also read

2. Genetics

Genetics plays an important role. Having family members with schizophrenia is known to increase the chance of developing the disorder. The NHS calls genetics one of the biggest reasons behind schizophrenia. Different combinations of genes can contribute to a person’s risk of developing schizophrenia. However, it must be remembered that it is not certain that the combination of genes would lead to schizophrenia. For example, if one of the twins has schizophrenia, there is a one in two chance that the other twin will also develop it.

3. Differences in brain structure

Differences in brain structure, such as changes in gray matter volume, have also been observed in some patients, says Dr. Dandekar. Brain volume changes in schizophrenia, as do structural and functional changes in the cortex, according to a study published in Current directions in psychological science.

4. Environmental factors

Environmental factors such as exposure to viruses or malnutrition during the prenatal period, significant psychosocial stress and trauma can also cause symptoms. Other psychological factors include responses to acute stress or emotional harm, which can lead to psychotic episodes in vulnerable individuals.

Symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition lists the following symptoms

• Delusions and hallucinations
• Disorganized speech
• Disorganized behavior
• Decreased emotional expression

It also states that two or more of the symptoms must be present for a month or more. It is also important to note that when people are delusional, they believe in things that are not real, such as thinking that someone is constantly following them. Hallucinations, on the other hand, usually involve hearing voices that do not exist.

How does paranoid schizophrenia differ from other forms of schizophrenia?

Paranoid schizophrenia is mainly characterized by its symptoms; of delusions and auditory hallucinations. A person does not show major cognitive decline or emotional problems. However, these symptoms are common in other forms of schizophrenia. This can make it easier for people with paranoid schizophrenia to function in everyday life compared to people who suffer from other subtypes.

Diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia

Diagnosing paranoid schizophrenia includes a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to discuss symptoms and mental health history, a medical examination to rule out other conditions, and psychological evaluations using standardized tools.

Mental health professionals use the criteria established in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)requiring the presence of symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech for a significant portion of the time.

Management and treatment of paranoid schizophrenia

Here are a few ways schizophrenia can be treated:

• The treatment of paranoid schizophrenia involves medication. Antipsychotics are used to control symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations.
• Psychological interventions, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, help individuals cope with the challenges of their condition and reduce the distress caused by their symptoms.
• Comprehensive care also includes social and vocational skills training to support and improve their community-building skills and quality of life. Ongoing treatment and support are often required to effectively manage the condition.

What does it mean to live with someone who has paranoid schizophrenia?

Living with someone who has paranoid schizophrenia requires patience, understanding and knowledge about the disease. A few things can help:

• It is critical to communicate openly, maintain a calm and structured home environment, and set clear expectations to help manage stress for both the individual and family members.
• Education about the condition is essential for understanding a loved one’s behavior and symptoms.
• Professional support for both the patient and family members, including therapy and support groups, is also important.

Resume

Paranoid schizophrenia is a common form of schizophrenia and should be treated as soon as possible. It is essential that you follow your treatment plan closely, including medication compliance and attendance at therapy sessions. Managing stress through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or exercise can help control symptoms. Establishing a routine helps provide structure and reduces the unpredictability that can lead to stress. Finally, maintaining social connections and seeking support from peers or support groups can provide comfort and advice, allowing the condition to be managed more effectively.