Is Depression & Heart Disease Linked? A Cardiologist Explains

Introduction

Depression is a common mental health phenomenon that needs the attention of

psychologists. But, does the condition also require the attention of heart

specialists? A cardiologist in Kolkata explains the connection between

depression and heart disease.

Depression and Heart Disease

Researchers suggest that people who suffer from depression are at higher risk

of developing heart disease. This is because depression is an all-encompassing

illness that impacts a person’s lifestyle in ways that can negatively impact

their heart health. For instance, a healthy heart demands regular exercising,

following a balanced diet, quitting cigarettes and many more and it is

challenging for people suffering from depression to follow a healthy lifestyle.

This is how depression can increase the chances of heart disease -

Lifestyle factors of depression
According to a heart specialist in Kolkata, symptoms of
depression include low mood, changes in sleep patterns, loss of
interest in things someone previously enjoyed, negative thoughts
about oneself, difficulty concentrating, and a change in appetite.

These symptoms can cause severe changes in a person’s daily
routines and habits, negatively impacting their physical health.
Depression causes people to neglect self-care. If the symptoms
last for extended periods, they may suffer from weight gain,
high blood pressure and develop other physical risk factors for
heart disease.

The physical effects of depression

Other than negative lifestyle impacts, depression can also affect a person’s
body and has been linked to low-grade inflammation, says
the best cardiologist in Kolkata. Low-grade inflammation can clog
arteries, boost stress hormones, and make blood clot more easily,
increasing the chance of developing heart disease.