Bipolar episodes decrease brain size, and possibly intelligence. Grey matter in the brains of people with bipolar disorder is destroyed with each manic or depressive episode.

Can bipolar cause permanent brain damage?

A study by researchers at the San Francisco VA Medical Center indicates that people with bipolar disorder may suffer progressive brain damage.

How does bipolar cause brain damage?

Brain Changes Research shows bipolar disorder may damage the brain over time. Experts think its because you slowly lose amino acids. They help build the proteins that make up the insulation around your neurons.

Does bipolar disorder get worse over time?

Bipolar may worsen with age or over time if this condition is left untreated. As time goes on, a person may experience episodes that are more severe and more frequent than when symptoms first appeared.

Does bipolar affect memory?

People with bipolar disorder often report problems with memory and cognition. They have trouble with short- and long-term memory, think things through at subdued speeds, and have difficulty thinking outside that so-called box. These memory problems can pose considerable challenges for bipolar patients.