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Signs/Symptoms of Paranoid Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia usually develops gradually, although onset can be sudden. Friends and family often notice the first changes before the victim does. Among the signs are:

• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Strange statements or behavior
• Withdrawal from friends, work, or school (assuming you have a job or an education)
• Dramatic weight loss
• Neglect of personal hygiene
• Anger
• Indifference to the opinions of others
• A tendency to argue
• A conviction that you are better than others, or that people are out to get you
  

Care

Drugs such as Thorazine, Haldol, and Risperdal combat symptoms in 4 out of 5 patients. An acute attack usually can be cleared up in 4 to 8 weeks. Counseling and group therapy help recovering patients to understand the disease and to function effectively.

Risks

Without medication and therapy, most paranoid schizophrenics are unable to function in the real world. If they fall victim to severe hallucinations and delusions, they can be a danger to themselves and those around them.