Prognosis Of Schizophrenia |
When one refers to a prognosis of schizophrenia, one usually means to query what the possible outcome will be for the patient. Examining the prognosis will involve understanding the following –
1. Duration of illness
2. Recovery prospects
3. Period of recovery
4. Potential outcomes
5. Survival and death rate
6. Chances of complications
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the illness, prognosis of schizophrenia can be unpredictable. It’s a medical fact that most sufferers will not fully recover, and will in fact experience some episodes in later life. It has been estimated that out of every 10 people who develop schizophrenia, 1 will eventually take his or her own life.
Additionally, because of such episodes, the patient will forgo opportunities that a healthy person can take advantage of such as job or career opportunities and relationships. And, there is also some degree of social stigma associated with being a schizophrenia patient. Most sufferers will have to accept side effects as a result of medication and residual symptoms.
On the flip-side, with medical advancement, the prognosis of schizophrenia has in fact improved in the last 25 years. So much so that, despite the lack of a completely effective therapy approach, many patients can improve sufficiently to be able to lead satisfying lives with some degree of independence.
Currently, at least 1 in 5 patients can expect to recover almost completely with the right treatment and medication. As medicine continues to advance, doctors and researchers fully expect to help more and more patients look towards successful outcomes in their battle against this disease.
As for medicine itself, it can definitely help the patient reduce and better manage the more distressing aspects of the illness, but only when used as prescribed and with regularity. Having said this, it’s a fact that the possible side effects of such medication will result in some patients choosing not to continue treatment. This is a consideration that doctors today are looking to deal with.
As it is, the prognosis of schizophrenia is already unpredictable by nature. Coupled with the desire of some patients not to follow treatment and medicine plans because of reasons like side effects, it makes it even harder to predict potential outcomes for schizophrenia sufferers. However, with medical advances and better research, there is some degree of confidence that more people will have a better chance of recovery in the future from this debilitating illness.
Important Fact #1: Possible Signs Of Schizophrenia
Look out for any of the following signs of schizophrenia -- paranoia, delusions, inactivity or hyperactivity, unusual/strange or lack of emotional responses, over or under sensitivity, self-imposed social isolation, hostility, lack of interest in proper personal hygiene and extreme depression. |
Important Fact #2: Mention Of Suicide
Patients with schizophrenia are more likely to try taking their lives. At all times, take any mention of suicide by them seriously and seek medical assistance. |
Important Fact #3: Curing Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia cannot be completely cured. However medical experts will tell you that 90% of people with the disorder can look forward to recovering to a degree that will enable them to function and lead happy lives. |
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