Depression Symptoms Physical
Most people think of depression as emotions like sadness, irritability and a sense of despair. Depression can also manifest as physical symptoms like fatigue, pain and changes to appetite.
The physical symptoms might not suffice on their own to diagnose depression, which is a condition that requires persistent severe, long-lasting, and enduring symptoms that last for more than two weeks. However, they can aid your doctor in evaluating your condition.
Loss of interest in activities
Depression can cause you to lose interest in activities that once brought you happiness. It can also cause physical problems like back pain, joint pain headaches, changes in appetite. Even if you've had enough sleep, you might feel exhausted. It can be difficult to get out of bed in the morning, and you may feel like you're insignificant. These feelings could cause you to want to stay at home and avoid social interactions. If you're experiencing these dark emotions, you should speak to your doctor.
Everyone experiences sadness from time to time particularly after a major loss or disappointment. If your sadness lasts two weeks or longer and interferes in your daily life and affects your daily routine, then you could be suffering from depression.
A mental health professional will evaluate your feelings and symptoms and determine if you suffer from clinical depression, also referred to as major depressive disorder (MDD). The evaluation will include lab tests and physical examinations to rule out medical problems. Additionally, it will include a psychiatric exam, where your mental health professional will inquire about your thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns. They will employ the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders that is published by the American Psychiatric Association, to determine if you are suffering from a mental disorder.
Depression is more common in women than men, but it can be a problem for anyone of any age. It can occur with or without a previous history of mental illness. It can also be triggered by certain circumstances, like a relationship breakup or an illness. Certain medications can trigger depression. However, it's essential to get a diagnosis because depression can be treated with medication and psychotherapy.
Fatigue
Fatigue can be felt throughout all of the body. Some people be constantly tired and others experience it more frequently. The fatigue can be accompanied by signs such as difficulty concentrating or thinking, loss of appetite, and feelings of sadness.
Many people who experience fatigue related to depression also have fibromyalgia, which is a condition that causes constant fatigue and pain. This is due to a variety of factors, including a chemical imbalance in the brain that may cause mood fluctuations and physical symptoms like an intense or burning pain in the muscles, or sensations of tingling in the legs or arms, or trouble sleeping.
Depression fatigue can make it difficult throughout the day. It may also lead to problems in the workplace or at school stress relationships, or raise stress levels. Someone who is suffering from depression might benefit from talking to an therapist or doctor.
In an appointment an health professional will inquire about your symptoms and sleep habits, your levels of activity and other factors. A physical exam and lab tests can be scheduled. Psychotherapy, medications and lifestyle changes are all possible treatments for depression fatigue.
You can manage depression fatigue on your own. It is important to consult a doctor about this sign. Engaging in activities you love and eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can boost energy levels. Eliminating alcohol and caffeine can also help reduce fatigue. Some people find it useful to keep a journal of their feelings so they can spot patterns that lead to fatigue.
Headaches
Headaches are one of the most frequently reported symptoms of depression. The pain may be mild or severe, and it can hinder the ability to function. The pain may also be accompanied by other physical symptoms, such as loss of appetite and weight loss. The headaches that are associated with depression may be primary, like tension or migraine headaches, or they can occur as a complication of depression, for instance cluster headaches.
The depression-related headaches can be triggered by many factors, including stress, fatigue, and sleep problems. Other health problems, such as cardiovascular diseases or irritable intestinal syndrome, can cause headaches too. The pain could also be caused by hormonal changes such as those that occur during puberty or pregnancy.
If you're experiencing headaches that are getting worse or new, it is important to visit your doctor. Your doctor will run tests and examine the causes of headaches. It is also crucial to speak to your doctor about how you're experiencing your emotions. Some doctors focus solely on physical symptoms of depression, which could result in a false diagnosis.
Having a headache alone is not an indication of depression. If you're experiencing other physical symptoms in addition to headaches, like a fatigue or a loss of enthusiasm for activities, then it is likely that you're depressed. If you've been diagnosed with depression you will receive an treatment plan that includes a combination of therapies to make you feel better. Your doctor will also speak about ways to avoid the recurrence of depression. This includes lifestyle changes and prescription medications. Depression can also trigger vision changes, like blurred or dim vision. The reason for these vision changes isn't completely understood, but it may be due to the way that your brain processes emotions and information about pain.
Muscle pains
Depression can cause you to feel achy in your muscles and joints, particularly. Depression can affect your nervous system which is responsible for transmitting signals for pain to and out of the body. Depression alters the balance of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, as well as norepinephrine. This can result in changes in mood and pain. The relationship between depression and pain is bidirectional. Lower moods could make you more sensitive, while high levels of pain can cause depression.
Fatigue can be another common physical sign of depression. This is not just feeling exhausted, but a profound fatigue that interferes with your everyday activities and doesn't disappear when you take a break. It is also essential to be aware that there could be underlying issues that are causing your fatigue. These could include digestive issues and irritable-bowel syndrome and both are often triggered through depression.
Muscle aches that are associated with depression are generally characterized as aching or dull. The aches may be persistent or come and go, and they are typically worse when you are stressed. These aches could be caused by muscle strain or inflammation and stress is usually an issue.
In symptoms of extreme depression getting enough sleep and taking pain relief over-the counter and applying a hot or ice compress whenever needed is the best way to manage muscle pain and physical symptoms. A well-balanced eating plan and regular exercise can aid in improving mood and reducing pain. Certain antidepressant medications have been proven to reduce symptoms of depression such as fatigue and pain. This includes older tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, (Elavil) and more recent medications like duloxetine (Cymbalta), and venlafaxine (Effexor). If you are struggling with pain or depression consult your physician about treatment options.
Weight loss
Depression can trigger an increase in appetite. Some people may lose weight by eating less. Some people may eat more to feel comfortable and end up gaining weight. This is because many people with depression have a lower metabolic rate and are more likely to experience digestive issues.
Depression can cause people to lose the sense of reality, which may lead to hallucinations and delusions. In certain cases the symptoms can be so severe that they can disrupt daily life and even result in suicidal ideas. This is called psychotic depression. This kind of depression is more common in women during pregnancy and after childbirth (also known as perinatal periods).
It's crucial to know that you can get help for depression if you're experiencing physical symptoms. Talking with a mental health professional can assist you in finding a treatment that works best for you and your specific symptoms. The assistance you require is crucial because it can improve your quality of life and increase your chances of recovery.
The majority of people who suffer from depression are aware of the emotional symptoms of depression, but they may miss or overlook physical symptoms. This could lead to people not seeking help.
It can be difficult to manage the physical symptoms of depression, but it is necessary to treat the problem effectively. If you experience these symptoms for more than two weeks, you should seek out a medical professional. You may also speak to a Priory Mental Health specialist who will help you manage and understand your symptoms. They can provide you with the support you need to heal.