Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Depression is Common after a Heart Attack

Virtually all patients who have had a heart attack should be evaluated for depression. This problem is often missed, and may have a profound effect on the quality of life and how long a patient lives after suffering a heart attack. Depression can be treated with medications, nutritional supplements, neurotransmitters, acupuncture, acupressure, B12 shots at home, biofeedback. Some medications are contraindicated because they can cause arrhythmias, but others are perfectly safe. If in doubt, please talk with your doctor about depression after a heart attack. It can make a big difference.

American Heart Association and Family Practice News, October 15, 2008, p. 18

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