A 30-year-old male has been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. He complains of tremors, gastrointestinal upset, and frequent urination. He has been taking lithium for the past two months. What could be the potential causes for his symptoms?
The symptoms the patient is experiencing, such as tremors, gastrointestinal upset, and frequent urination, may be side effects of lithium, a common medication used for Bipolar Disorder. Lithium toxicity should be considered if these symptoms worsen or if the patient exhibits confusion, muscle weakness, or coordination problems. Monitoring blood lithium levels and renal function is essential when using lithium therapy. The healthcare provider may consider adjusting the dose or switching to a different mood stabilizer if side effects persist.