Schizophrenia

             Despite extensive research the actual cause of Schizophrenia is still unknown; there are many possible causes, but a certain few have been singled out. One of the possible causes is thought to be genetics. Genetics however, wouldn't be an actual cause because genes are inherited; it would be a genetic defect in the first person to have it. The second possible cause is the Biochemical theory in which chemical imbalances in the brain affect the transmission and interpretation of signals. Such as, a knife cut to a normal person would equal pain; however, to a schizophrenic, a knife cut may equal pain but because of chemical imbalances, their brain interprets that as pleasure. The third possible cause is Environmental. This would suggest that a person's home life or usual surroundings and the stress that comes with that could be the cause. One of the more believable theories is the Bio-Social-Psycho theory (Smith 48). This theory is a combination of the possible causes dis!.
             cussed above, in which all are equal contributors to the disease.
             Although no theories on the cause of schizophrenia have been confirmed, the use of medication and other treatments are helping to uncover this mystery. The most common treatment for the disease is medication, which would suggest that schizophrenia does have to do with the chemicals in the brain. The medications used to treat schizophrenia are called Anti-Psychotics. The older anti-psychotics, such as Haldol and Prolixin were for general treatment of the disease; however, newer anti-psychotics such as Clozaril, Risperdal and Zyprexa are used to treat the different types of schizophrenia. Although used for different treatments, anti-psychotics generally have the same effect. Anti-Psychotics, also known as neuroleptics, are used to reduce anxiety and hyperactivity, neutralize hallucinations, and calm aggression (Nadelson 66). They initially cause drowsiness, blurred vision, drooling, slurred speech and many other side effects that slowly drop off as the dosage continues.