The size of the impact of depression on cardiovascular health

That depression is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease medicine already knows. Some doctors point out that deep melancholy increases the concentration of hormones like cortisol – and, in excess, they would damage the blood vessels and the heart. “The question is: what is the relationship between depression and other risk factors, such as smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, and hypertension. And how significant is the role of each of these pictures? “Asks researcher Karl-Heinz Ladwig, leader of the new study at the Helmholtz Center in Munich, in a press release.

To calculate the impact size of each of these threats, the scientists analyzed 3 428 men between the ages of 45 and 74. The data, collected over ten years, indicated that depression accounted for 15% of deaths from cardiovascular diseases.

This number is similar to other risk factors such as obesity and high cholesterol. The only problems that overcame the psychiatric disorder were hypertension and smoking.

According to the World Health Organization, 350 million people suffer from depression, which is also the most disabling disease worldwide. Although it is a mental disorder, its effects on physical health are severe: in addition to heart problems, the condition can open up gaps for diabetes, Parkinson’s and even cancer.

But this issue is not a one-way street: other surveys point out that cardiovascular disease also fuels depression. A person suffering a heart attack, for example, may have depressive symptoms because they feel guilty about the illness or have lost some physical abilities, as explained by cardiologist Roy Ziegelstein of the John Hopkins hospital on his Web site. That’s why it’s good to be aware: depression and heart pounding usually go hand in hand.

8 Possible Treatments for Depression

Depression already affects almost 10% of the world population, and the projection shows a sad growth. Treating the condition, which is considered the evil of this century, is not always a simple task – but it is extremely necessary to re-establish the quality of life of patients. We’ve listed some of the strategies available to fight the problem.

1- Tricyclics

Tablets that increase the supply of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the head. It is one of the oldest classes.

2- Imaos

Remedies that inhibit an enzyme that destroys substances of mental well-being. But they have many side effects.

3- Inhibitors

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors increase the availability of the chemical messenger between neurons.

4- Other drugs

There are categories that increase the load on various elements of the gray matter, such as noradrenaline and dopamine.

5- Electricity

Controlled electrical shocks are a very effective approach, especially in serious cases.

6- Magnetism

Still, in tests, the device emits electromagnetic pulses in the skull of the patient. The initial results are promising.

7- Psychotherapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (and other methods) is a crucial ally in resolving and overcoming conflicts.

8- Healthy life

A balanced diet and, mainly, the practice of physical activity provide a lady aid in recovery.