Yet another risk of heart failure
Learning you have heart failure (HF) can be an emotional blow, since the disease can lead to significant health complications and poor quality of life. And while depression is more common in women with HF, a study presented at the American Heart Association's 2012 Quality of Care and Outcomes Research Scientific Sessions found that the severity of the depression is much greater in men with HF. "Heart failure can make one quite physically weak, and this may hit men especially hard, based on their traditional views of masculinity," says interventional cardiologist Dr. Deepak Bhatt, a professor at Harvard Medical School. There is also growing evidence that depression can worsen heart disease. Depression may cause a person to stop taking medicine, exercising, or eating properly, which may hurt heart health. So depression after a diagnosis of HF can lead to a downward spiral. That's why it's so important for depression to be recognized.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
