Studies suggested that depression might lead to a risk in the increase in acute renal failure and chronic kidney disease. In one of the studies, 5,785 people were studied for 10 years and given a questionnaire measuring depressive symptoms and a broad range of medical measurements including eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) and risk factors for heart disease and kidney disease were all taken into consideration to eliminate the biases.
This study concluded that the patients suffering from depression were more likely to develop kidney disease and a decline in renal function.
These studies are still very preliminary and should not alarm anyone suffering from depression but should act as a motivator to encourage individuals to seek help for their depressive symptoms.
On the other hand, it is known that depression is very common among patients with chronic kidney disease and studies have shown that if the depression is left untreated; the prognosis of the kidney diseases is much worse.
This study concluded that the patients suffering from depression were more likely to develop kidney disease and a decline in renal function.
These studies are still very preliminary and should not alarm anyone suffering from depression but should act as a motivator to encourage individuals to seek help for their depressive symptoms.
On the other hand, it is known that depression is very common among patients with chronic kidney disease and studies have shown that if the depression is left untreated; the prognosis of the kidney diseases is much worse.
Depression left untreated can have a negative effect on the protective sheathing of our neurons in our brains. We also know that depression and other mental illnesses affect our immune systems and overall well being. Some of this is attributed to the chemical imbalances as well as the lack of motivation caused by the illnesses to get the proper exercise and eat healty diets.
Depression is debilitating and its holistic effect on the body must be taken into account with any treatment plan. When the depression is treated with some antidepressant medications, it has been shown that this protective sheathing remains intact. We also know that depression and anxiety do play a role in our overall health and immune system and this recent study of its manifesting in the form of kidney disease is one of great interest.
I have heard stories of individuals suffering an emotionally traumatic situation such as an auto accident and the very next day coming down with the flu; so we know that our emotional well being is critical to our health.
There is not enough research as of yet to understand the connection between depression andrenal failure; however, this is all the more reason for any treatment plan of depression, anxiety or any other mental illness to include healthy lifestyle and dietary changes.
Studies have shown that the amount of trans-fats in a diet may lead to depression as well as an increase in the Omega fish oils actually working to counter depression and elevate and assist in balancing the levels of the neurotransmitters.
Studies have shown how exercise can increase the level of endorphins in the body and are even the best way to increase certain hormones such as testosterone. This is a study that we will follow with great interest with regards to any genetic studies that may come out of this research as well as any chemical markers or correlations by which one may use as a preventative measure in the future. In the mean time it is always wise to eat for life, low fat, moderate protein and high fiber diet and maintain a good exercise program. Read the article on the possible link between depression and renal failure.
by : Dr. Marie Gronley MD PC
this article is for informational purposes only and not for diagnosing or treating any mental illness
