(Encarta).
Chemical Imbalance.
Evidence marks that a cause of schizophrenia is a result of an imbalance of chemicals named neurotransmitters. These chemicals enable brain cells to communicate with each other. Too much activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine, one of the brain's chemical messengers, in certain parts of the brain is a caused form of schizophrenia. Antipsychotic drugs reduce symptoms in schizophrenia by blocking brain receptors, a nerve ending or group of nerve endings for receiving stimuli; sense organ, for dopamine. In addition, an increase in dopamine activity intensifies psychotic symptoms in people with schizophrenia. Also, other neurotransmitters may play important roles as well. (Encarta).
Prenatal Factors.
Evidence suggests that factors in the prenatal environment can increase the risk of a person later developing schizophrenia. For example, pregnant women who have been exposed to the influenza virus or who have poor nutrition have an increased chance of giving birth to a child who later develops schizophrenia. (Encarta).
Stressful Events.
Stress in the environment, such as the death of a loved one, an important change in jobs or relationships, or chronic tension can stimulate the risk of schizophrenia in a biologically predisposed person. Although scientists favor a biological cause of schizophrenia, stressful life circumstances may trigger a relapse of symptoms in a person who already has the illness. Individuals who have the effective skills for managing stress may be less sensitive to its negative effects. (Encarta).
Symptoms.
Schizophrenia usually develops in late adolescence or early adulthood, between the ages of 15 and 30. In most cases, the first episode takes place throughout these years, and tends to be followed by others. Schizophrenia begins at a fast pace, but it usually develops slowly over months or years.
Symptoms of schizophrenia occur in thoughts, perceptions, feelings, movements, and interpersonal relationships.