How Depression and Heart Disease are interlinking
Did you know that there's a two way relationship between depression & heart disease? Read on to find out how they are interlinked.
Both depression & heart disease are the most disabling diseases. They are both widespread & tend to occur simultaneously as well.
It is very common, even natural, for us to feel sad or depressed once in a while. But chronic depression takes a toll on your body, in more ways than you can imagine.
Research indicates that people with no history of depression can have severe bouts of depression post a heart attack or any other heart condition. And those with depression & no history of heart disease, tend to develop heart disease at a much higher rate as compared to the general population.
Statistics reveal that about one in five individuals who've had a heart attack are found to have depression and the numbers are very similar in people with heart failure.
Relationship between Depression, Heart Disease & Recovery
People with depression and are recovering from a heart attack have been found to have a lower chance of recovery & a higher risk of death than people without depression. Here are a few reasons why this happens:
In depressed heart attack patients, motivation to follow healthy routine is much lower & can result in skipping medications, avoiding nutritious diet or exercise. They may also continue their smoking and/or drinking habits.
Depressed individuals may also experience changes in the nervous system & hormonal balance. This can lead to an arrhythmia. The combination of depression & damaged heart due to heart attack can make people particularly susceptible to potentially life threatening heart rhythm abnormalities.
Research suggests that people with depression tend to have uncommonly sticky platelets, cells that can cause blood clotting. In patients with a heart condition, this can lead to hardening of arteries and enhance the risk of heart attack.
How does depression cause heart disease?
Prolonged stress, anxiety or depression can increase heart rate & blood pressure levels. This can also lead to reduced b=flow of blood to the heart & increased production of cortisol levels. These can lead to heart failure, stroke and heart attack.
Emotional distress & depression have also been found to cause blockages in the heart vessels (coronary artery disease). Further the lifestyle habits in a depressed individual are very similar to the risk factors of cardiovascular disease. These may include:
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Poor eating habits
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Depression is generally more common in women as compared to men. As such risk of depression in women with heart disease is higher.
Lifestyle Changes that can help manage Depression & Heart Disease
- Eat Healthy Foods
- Exercise regularly
- Reduce Alcohol consumption
- Quit Smoking
- Get plenty of rest
- Practice deep breathing
- Consider Psychotherapy
Dr Sudheer Koganti is a Senior Consultant Cardiologist at Citizens Hospital. He is the best cardiologist in Hyderabad & offers world class treatment for all heart related ailments. He is passionate about spreading awareness to prevent cardiovascular disease & ensuring better outcomes for patients with such problems.
For Appointments, call 9398 766 594
For Appointments, call 9398 766 594
