Schizophrenia does not originate from one single gene; it takes many genetic changes and mutations to increase the chances of obtaining the disease. Those who have immediate relatives with schizophrenia or other psychiatric diseases have a greater risk of developing a mental disease. If they have a close relative with schizophrenia, then there is a 10% chance of obtaining the mental disease. If both parents carry the disease, then there’s a 40% chance the disease will be passed along. If they have a twin carrying it there a 50% chance of gaining it.
B. Environmental triggers
Environmental based triggers involve anything that is not based off of genes or genetic factors. Environmental triggers …show more content…
Stress
Stress in one’s environment influences the release of glutamate and dopamine, providing an environmental factor that appears to modulate neurotransmitter function. Dopamine irregularities can arise from a process of sensation. Some people are hyper sensitive to the effects of certain drugs, for either genetic reasons or from damage in their environmental upbringing. Stressors of drug use and social adversity in adolescence or early childhood can drive neurodevelopmental impaired individuals over a threshold.
D. Chemical differences in the brain
Those who have schizophrenia have chemically altered brains compared to a non-schizophrenic individual. They have larger spaces in their brains called ventrides. Parts of the brain that deal with memory, called medial temporal lobes, are found to be smaller. They have fewer connections between their brain cells. Neurotransmitters, which are responsible for communicating information to the brain, work less effectively as well.
SYMPTOMS
E. Positive …show more content…
The first step is the physical exam. This is where they are checked for related complications and specialist rule out other problems that could be causing the symptoms. The second step involves putting the individual through various lab tests and screenings. The tests help rules out conditions with similar symptoms and the screening is for testing if there is any alcohol or drugs in the system. The doctor can also request an MRI and CT scan to get a better look at the brain. The next step is the psychiatric evaluation. This is when a doctor or mental health professional check mental status of the patient by observing appearance and examining their thoughts, hallucinations, delusions and the potential for violence and suicidal tendencies. Additionally, they may go back and look at the diagnosis criteria. The doctor may use criteria in the Diagnosis and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSN) published by the American psychiatric association in order to diagnose the