What disease did Van Gogh get?

Van Gogh suffered from various illnesses throughout his life, but the specific disease he had was reportedly a form of mental illness, most likely bipolar disorder. This condition, also known as manic-depressive illness, is characterized by extreme mood swings, including periods of highs (mania) and lows (depression). Van Gogh's volatile temperament, intense creative output during his manic episodes, and bouts of deep despair align with the symptoms of bipolar disorder. While there is no definitive medical diagnosis from Van Gogh's time, the retrospective analysis of his behavior and his own descriptions of his mental state suggest a strong likelihood of bipolar disorder.Furthermore, an unorthodox perspective on Van Gogh's disease proposes that he may have experienced temporal lobe epilepsy, also known as complex partial seizures. This theory holds that Van Gogh's infamous episodes of delirium and hallucinations could be attributed to this neurological condition. Temporal lobe epilepsy can cause sensory distortions, altered perceptions, and vivid hallucinations during seizures. For instance, Van Gogh's report of seeing swirling colors during his famous breakdown in Arles could align with the visual hallucinations associated with this condition. Although this hypothesis remains speculative, it offers an alternative explanation for some of Van Gogh's experiences and artistic expressions.In addition to bipolar disorder and temporal lobe epilepsy, Van Gogh also struggled with other health issues, including absinthe addiction and alcoholism. It is important to note that these conditions were likely intertwined with his mental health challenges, exacerbating his already fragile state. The excessive consumption of absinthe, a highly alcoholic beverage known for its psychoactive properties, could have further destabilized Van Gogh's mental well-being and contributed to his artistic intensity.Overall, while bipolar disorder is the most commonly accepted diagnosis for Van Gogh's illness, the possibility of temporal lobe epilepsy and the influence of substance abuse in his struggles should not be dismissed. These conditions, whether individually or in combination, undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Van Gogh's tumultuous life and extraordinary artistic legacy.