Can Schizophrenia Worsen with Age?

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that affects the brain and accelerates its ageing. It comes with challenges for the ones diagnosed with it as well as their loved ones. In Schizophrenic patients, symptoms might get worse over time or remain the same in some cases. Using recreational drugs or alcohol can trigger the symptoms of this mental disorder. In this article, let's explore more to know what worsens the symptoms of Schizophrenia and how.

The severity of Schizophrenia usually does not change with age. The symptoms might get worse with time or stay the same for certain people. Age is usually not a factor in the development of Schizophrenia.

What causes Schizophrenia to worsen?

There are numerous explanations for why Schizophrenia could seem to get worse with time. If a person is suffering from this disorder, he/she needs to avoid alcohol and recreational drugs because the use of it may worsen the symptoms.

What are the signs of Schizophrenia getting worse?

For a long while, people believed that Schizophrenia worsens with age. However, new studies indicate that this isn’t always the case. The signs that indicate worsening of this condition are:

• When people with Schizophrenia become less social or isolate themselves. This could be a sign that their condition is getting worse.

Conversely, if such a person develops an attachment to a particular individual, it could indicate a new delusional symptom. In such cases, one should get in touch with a doctor who might adjust the dosage of the prescribed medications.

• Another sign is a change in the sleep pattern. A person coping with Schizophrenia may stop sleeping for long periods every day. Other symptoms could be recurrent nightmares or having a hard time trying to fall asleep. All these symptoms could be the result of medications a person is taking. Consulting a doctor is the best way to find the cause and its effective treatment.

• Change in weight or appetite is also a sign that you must know. In this case, the patient starts overeating and putting on weight. On the other hand, a person may start eating frugally and shed weight. This could be due to hallucinations associated with food.

• If persons diagnosed with Schizophrenia start speaking incoherently or use jumbled words, it could be a sign of worsening symptoms or a relapse of the ailment. In such circumstances, doctors may adjust the dosage of medications.