How to Recognize the Physical Symptoms of Depression

How to Recognize the Physical Symptoms of Depression

Depression is most commonly associated with emotional symptoms, such as sadness, guilt, irritability, and feelings of hopelessness. Although we know depression is a mental illness, many people also experience physical symptoms. These physical manifestations can be just as debilitating as mood-related symptoms and can lead to insurmountable daily challenges.

Those who experience physical symptoms due to depression may not connect the dots between their mental and physical health. The most common physical symptoms that people experience are pain, gastrointestinal issues, and a weakened immune system—all of which could be easily attributed to other maladies.

Learn how to identify when these symptoms are the result of depression:

Pain
Those with depression may experience generalized pain that affects the joints, bones, or back. It is still not fully understood what the relationship is between pain and depression, but one theory is that individuals living with depression process pain differently. It has been found that individuals who suffer from major depressive disorder have lower pain tolerances and thresholds.

Tummy Troubles
Gastrointestinal symptoms may occur in those with depression because of the physical and chemical link between the brain and digestive systems. This bond works both ways, where the intestines communicate any issues with the brain, and the brain communicates problems to the intestines. For those with depression, the most common digestive issues are gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Other issues include nausea, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.

Immune System
When it comes to depression, chronic stress impairs the immune system and produces chronic inflammation. Stress and inflammation can make a person’s immune system work less efficiently, which means they are more likely to get sick. When someone with a weakened immune system gets sick, it takes longer for them to recover. A weakened immune system also increases the risk of developing complications as a result of their sickness.

Certain treatments for depression can also have physical side effects, like nausea, weight changes, and sexual dysfunction. If you are experiencing side effects as a result of your antidepressant medications, please discuss them with your prescriber. There may be alternative solutions that could help you manage your depression with fewer side effects.

Ketamine infusion therapy is one such option, that offers rapid relief from depression with very few side effects. If you would like to learn more about ketamine therapy, we urge you to contact us using the brief form below. We are happy to explain what ketamine infusions are and determine whether you are a candidate for treatment.

Contact Tahoe Ketamine

Our clinical team is here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you determine what type of treatment or path forward is most beneficial to you. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression or anxiety, contact our office today so that we may answer any questions you may have about ketamine infusion therapy.