Contributing Causes of Schizophrenia - Possible Triggers and Factors

What are the possible contributing causes of schizophrenia?

Although there is no doubt that genetics play a big part in schizophrenia, is it possible that there are other causes as well? And, if so, could those causes be prevented?

Most experts agree that schizophrenia develops as a result of a person's biological predisposition, such as genetics, and the environment that an individual is exposed to. Brain development disruption can occur either during pregnancy or early childhood, which can make a person susceptible to developing schizophrenia, although not every person who has these brain disruptions is going to develop it.

Although not causes of schizophrenia, per se, family history plays a part. Those individuals that have immediate relatives with schizophrenia or other mental illnesses such as depression, bi-polar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder, have an increased risk of developing schizophrenia. However, other factors play a part as well. For instance, a person can possess the genes, but not experience the environmental factors that can trigger schizophrenia, and therefore not develop the disease.

When discussing the potential causes of schizophrenia, it is important to note that environmental triggers do not necessarily refer to one's house or neighborhood. Instead, they refer to the nutritional and hormonal environment in a woman's womb during pregnancy, as well as a person's education, vitamin use, education, social dynamics, and more.

Some research indicates that a child born to a mother who had the flu or other infections and viruses during pregnancy is at a higher risk of developing schizophrenia. This is particularly true of mothers who had the flu during their first trimester. Again, though not causes of schizophrenia, per se, this is thus another one of the possible contributing factors.

Some women are leery of taking a flu shot during pregnancy. So, while we do not recommend flu shots at all, if you really wish to take one, it is recommended that the flu shot be taken before trying to conceive. That way, the risk associated with vaccination is reduced.

In addition, taking extra precautions not to get sick during pregnancy is especially important.

What are some other possible contributing factors and causes of schizophrenia?

Prenatal exposure to painkillers, such as aspirin, can also increase a child's risk of developing schizophrenia later on in life. For that reason, finding natural methods for pain relief, such as warm baths and chamomile tea, is recommended over taking any prescription or over the counter painkiller.

In addition, high stress levels in pregnant women can increase the chances of the fetus developing schizophrenia later on. High stress levels can also result in behavioral problems and developmental delays, so finding healthy ways of dealing with stress is very important during pregnancy.

Further, a vitamin D deficiency might be a cause of increased risk of developing schizophrenia, too. Taking vitamin D supplements during pregnancy, if not already included within the pre-natal vitamins, is suggested for pregnant women.

How about some other possible external contributing causes of schizophrenia?

Other outside environmental influences that can increase a child's risk of developing schizophrenia include early parental loss or separation, premature birth, and physical or sexual abuse during childhood.

There are also some chemical imbalances that can increase the chances of getting this condition as well. An under activity of glutamate can be a culprit, as can an excess of dopamine in the brain. Enlarged brain ventricles and abnormally low activity in the frontal lobe can also be connected to symptoms of schizophrenia.

One of the best things that a woman can do while pregnant is to make sure that she is focusing on her overall health. Taking preventive measures against contacting diseases, eating a healthy diet, and keeping stress levels low are not only good for the woman's health, but for the developing fetus as well.

Having read about the possible triggers and causes of schizophrenia, you can learn more about this ailment by reading the other related schizophrenia articles and pages.

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