Posted by Cam W. on February 13, 2001, at 11:41:09
In reply to Hormonal Imbalance or Depression?, posted by roo on February 13, 2001, at 8:46:03
Roo - Hormonal imbalances can cause depression. This is very common. Depression commonly results from endocrine disorders such as acromegaly, Cushing's syndrome, hypothyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, diabetes mellitus, Addison's disease, etc.
Many other medical disorders also cause depression (eg Alzheimer's, Parkinsonism, TB, lupus, emphysema, AIDS, CFS, malnutrition, cancers, tumors, etc.). The depression occurs not only as a lack of coping, but more likely as a direct result of the mechanisms of the disease.
All of the body systems seem to interwine (ie talk to each other), so when you disturb one you are disturbing them all. The endocrine system and stress system (HPA axis) are particularily interwined. Both involve the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
Many times just correcting the hormonal imbalance will not correct the depression and it is necessary to take antidepressants to get the HPA axis back online. Do not be surprized if you are treated for both.
Hope this helps - Cam
poster:Cam W.
thread:53864
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010212/msgs/53877.html