Juan Ramirez
Green
11/26/13
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia was identified in 1887 by Dr. Emile Kraepelin but many believe the
disease has existed with mankind long before the 1800s. It is a mental disorder that affects
thought, emotion, and behavioral actions. The disease causes hallucinations, delusions and
paranoia.
New findings from investigators show free radicals, are highly reactive chemical species
made during normal metabolic processes, in excess can damage the membrane. When the
membrane is altered, it may contribute to complications of schizophrenia treatment. Developing
new strategies such as fatty acids and antioxidant supplements could be possible in the future.
A study, which needs further research, was conducted on the relationship between heart
rate and schizophrenia. Schizophrenia patients without medication have shown that their heart
rate variability has decreased. Cardio-respiratory function has never been studied in this disease.
Increased breathing and a low respiratory system is associated with low vagal function.
Antipsychotic medications are used to treat schizophrenia. They are also called
conventional antipsychotics. One of the most effective medications is Clozaril, but it leads to
serious problems like losing white blood cells, which help fight of infections.
During decades of genetic research, a particular research was used to identify genetic
variants causing risk for disease. Schizophrenia has an estimated heritability of approximately 70
percent. Most of inherited risk for this disease remains undetected. The origins of schizophrenia
are unknown but many theories have been made. Many theories have been considered to be the
cause of the disease such as, utero exposure to prenatal development, nutritional deprivation and
chemical exposure.
Conclusion, schizophrenia is an ongoing research disease. With time and dedication
solutions will be available in the near future.
Works Cited
Yao, J.K., R.D. Reddy, and D.P. van Kammen. "Oxidative Damage And Schizophrenia: An
Overview Of The Evidence And Its Therapeutic Implications." CNS Drugs 15.4.
Academic Search Premier. Web. 26 Nov. 2013.
Bär, Karl-Jürgen, et al. "The Phrenic Component Of Acute Schizophrenia -- A Name And Its
Physiological Reality." Plos ONE 7.3. Academic Search Premier. Web. 26 Nov. 2013.
Roofeh, David, et. al. “Genetics of Schizophrenia.” International Journal of Mental Health.
Academic Search Premier. Spring 2013. Web. 26 Nov. 2013.
Opler, Mark, et. al. “Environmental Risk Factors and Schizophrenia.” International Journal of
Mental Health. Academic Search Premier. Spring 2013. Web. 26 Nov. 2013.