Can depression cause low blood pressure?

Answer 1

High blood pressure could have an influence on depression, but what is more likely is that depression could cause a distinct rise in blood pressure. Depression can predispose a person to high blood pressure in many ways. Stress and anxiety can cause tension and not only increase the workload on the cardiovascular system but can also cause sympathetic activation of the Renin-Angiotensin system; which is an enzymatic response by the sympathetic nervous system to help an individual respond to an extreme situation with enough energy to cope. However, the prolonged stimulation of the fight or flight mechanism not only involves the adrenal glands' response but can result in the entire endocrine cascade of epinephrine;which dialates smooth respiratory tissue and increases the pulse, but also norepinephrine; which is the mirror-opposite of epinephrine(dopamine). This really increases the blood pressure. There can be other causes than these positive feedback systems; ones that do not result in acute and emergent hypertensive crisis'. These include high cholesterol, atherosclerosis and artherosclerosis, high salt intake, increased fat absorption and storage due to changes in metabolism from lack of exercise, increased or poor diet techniques, or even due to decreased levels of endorphins which have been shown to have positive circulatory effects in regards to oxygenation. In a nut shell depression and high blood pressure can be related in many ways depending on how well the depression is controlled and how the depression is controlling the individuals stress levels and actions.

Answer 2

Depression generally lowers body functions. People who are depressed feel sluggish, tired, and "slowed down" in general. Many depressed people sleep more than usual. High blood pressure is caused by many things, but depression is not usually one of them. If you are getting high blood pressure readings, see your doctor. There are many easy and inexpensive treatments for high blood pressure nowadays!

Answer 3

Yes, like any SSRI Prozac can raise blood pressure. It acts on serotonine receptors. Serotonine is not only responsible for certain emotions, but is active in a lot of our body parts. It also controls our body temperature, heartbeat, blood pressure and appetite for example.

Most of the time these issues will appear when you start using the medicine and might go away after long term use.

Working out, walking and going to the sauna might keep your blood pressure under control, but in case you don't trust it, always contact your doctor.

Answer 4

Yes. Adrenaline is released and your heart pumps faster to get more oxygen throught your body.

Answer 5

People who experience symptoms of depression or anxiety are at increased risk of developing hypertension. The direct connection is unknown, but it seems to be at least partially hereditary.

Answer 6

yes