Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is an uncommon and widely misunderstood mental health condition, affecting less than 1% of the American population. The team at KAB Medical Group Inc. in San Diego, Hollywood, and Chula Vista, California, provides expert diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan to reduce your symptoms and improve your health and quality of life. If you’re concerned about schizophrenia, call the practice or schedule an appointment online today.

What is schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that causes various symptoms ranging from hallucinations to disorganized thinking. Contrary to some common misconceptions, schizophrenia doesn’t cause multiple personalities. 

The condition usually emerges in early adulthood and is more common in men than in women. While there isn’t a cure for schizophrenia, the disease is manageable when treated, and you can lead a healthy and independent life. 

Schizoaffective disorders combine the symptoms of schizophrenia with mood disorders such as depression or mania. 

What are the symptoms of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia can cause a wide range of symptoms classified as positive, negative, or disorganized. 

Positive symptoms are abnormal additions to the way you perceive the world. They include visual and auditory hallucinations, paranoia, and distorted perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors. 

Negative schizophrenia symptoms, on the other hand, detract from your ability to interact with your environment. These symptoms include a decreased ability to communicate, plan, or find pleasure. 

Disorganized symptoms include confused or disordered thoughts and speech, reduced ability to think logically, and abnormal behaviors or movements. 

How are schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders treated?

The first step in treating schizophrenia or a schizoaffective disorder is receiving an accurate diagnosis. The team at KAB Medical Group Inc. provides a comprehensive evaluation and testing to identify the condition causing your symptoms. 

Once your psychiatrist diagnoses schizophrenia and evaluates the severity of your condition and its effect on your life, they work with you to create and implement a personalized treatment plan. The team usually combines traditional treatments, like medication and counseling, with integrative treatments. 

Medication

Prescription medication is often critical in treating schizophrenia. Antipsychotic drugs can regulate your brain chemistry and reduce your symptoms. Medicine can also lower your risk of having an acute attack of your symptoms. 

Counseling

The team at KAB Medical Group Inc. provides customized counseling services to help you learn to recognize your symptoms and develop strategies and tactics to improve your ability to function in your day-to-day life. 

For example, many patients with schizophrenia or a schizoaffective disorder benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy. 

Integrative treatments

You might also benefit from lifestyle adjustments and alternative therapies to enhance your overall health and well-being. Following a nutrient-rich diet, getting regular physical activity, and following a daily routine are often helpful. 

Your physician might recommend some vitamins or supplements. Some studies show that vitamins C, D, E, and some of the B vitamins can help reduce schizophrenic symptoms.

Call KAB Medical Group Inc. or make an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and customized treatment for schizophrenia.