Depression and heart disease are among the most disabling diseases we face. They both occur frequently at the same time in the same person and are highly common in the general population. Most of us lead unhealthy lifestyles due to the demands of contemporary life, and when people are stressed, sad, or apprehensive, their health deteriorates even more. There is a deep, bidirectional relationship between heart disease and depression. Even in those without established heart disease, depression is a risk factor in and of itself for heart problems.
Patients who have been diagnosed with heart disease also have an increased chance of being diagnosed with depression. Up to 15% of patients with heart disease and 20% more who have undergone bypass surgery experience depression. Numerous studies have demonstrated the physiological impact of mental and emotional well-being on the heart and body. Dr. Ravinder Singh Rao, an esteemed expert in cardiology and TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) treatment provides insightful guidance on the intricate relationship between depression and heart disease.
According to Dr. Ravinder Singh Rao, ongoing research underscores a significant link between depression and an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. Depression can result in unhealthy lifestyle decisions including smoking, eating poorly, and not exercising, all of which increase the risk of heart disease. Moreover, depression-related stress and inflammation may have a direct effect on heart health by impairing blood vessel function and raising the risk of artery plaque accumulation.
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How Does Depression Affect Health?
- Unmanaged stress and sadness can result in a reduced immune system, high blood pressure, vascular damage, and irregular heartbeats.
- Heart disease risk factors include decreased cardiac variability, elevated proinflammatory markers, and elevated platelet reactivity in patients with depression.
- Depression increases the risk of heart attacks and the development of coronary artery disease.
- Depression increases morbidity and mortality following heart surgery and hinders the healing process.
- According to the American Heart Association, depression screening should be done on all cardiac patients.
Tips for Managing Depression and Stress
Consider the following key steps to manage depression and stress.
1. Identify and address Depression
Feeling depressed or nervous on certain days or times is perfectly acceptable. However, If this persists and is widespread for longer than two weeks, it may be a sign of depression. In such cases, proper action should be taken, such as consulting a mental health expert. Many variables, including a combination of genetic susceptibility, and biochemical, environmental, and psychosocial components, can lead to depression.
Some symptoms of depression to be on the lookout for include:
- fatigue/low energy levels leading to physical inactivity.
- Sadness of mood.
- Anxiety, irritability.
- Lack of interest.
- Disturbed sleep and appetite.
- Overthinking, negative thinking.
- Low self confidence and motivation.
- Poor attention concentration and memory functions.
- Physical symptoms such as pains and aches.
2. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Heart health can be improved by walking for 40 minutes a day, up to 300 minutes a week. The walk must be strenuous for half of it. Frequent exercise also lifts your spirits, reduces stress, and eventually supports mental and emotional health.
Regular yoga and exercise routines support heart health maintenance. A healthy lifestyle also includes relaxation methods like meditation and deep breathing exercises. They assist in controlling the wandering mind. Adequate sleep, 7 to 8 hours a day is necessary.
3. Pay Attention to Your Diet
Make the switch to a balanced and healthful diet. Recognize what a balanced diet entails. Use healthier ingredients and cooking methods to reduce fat, sugar, salt, and calorie intake. Eat wholesome evening snacks, such as raw fruits and vegetables. Recall to “eat the rainbow,” or a variety of colored fruits and vegetables, and stay away from HFSS (high fat, salt, and sugar) foods.
- Fine Time for Positive Addictions: These include, to mention a few, physical activity, reading, cooking, creative arts, music and dance, and gardening.
- Avoid Smoking Alcohol and Other Drugs of Abuse: Contrary to popular assumption, abusing drugs can result in a variety of mental and physical issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and other illnesses, as well as anxiety and depression.
FAQs
Can depression lead to heart disease?
Yes, depression is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Stress and alterations in lifestyle associated with depression can have a detrimental effect on heart health.
How does depression affect heart health?
Heart disease can be caused by bad lifestyle choices brought on by depression, such as eating poorly and not exercising. It also increases stress and inflammation, affecting blood vessel function.
Are people with depression more likely to experience heart attacks?
Yes, Studies indicate that because depression affects heart health and lifestyle, those with depression may be more susceptible to heart attacks than people without the condition.
Can treating depression reduce the risk of heart disease?
Depression treatment can lower the risk of heart disease and enhance general health. Heart health may benefit from more heart-healthy lifestyle choices and lower levels of stress brought on by effective depression management.
What are the signs that depression might be affecting heart health?
Chest pain, dyspnea, prolonged exhaustion, and adjustments in physical activity levels are among the warning indicators. It is imperative that you see a cardiologist as well as a mental health expert if you are having these symptoms.
