DEPRESSION – AMINE (DOPAMINE)
Dopamine is an amine necessary in the conduction of nervous impulses. Another amine, 5 hydroxy tryptamine (5-HT), has been shown to be present in less than normal amounts in depression.
Depression is common at the menopause. It may be improved when oestrogen, the female hormone, is given to treat the physical symptoms of oestrogen lack. Some drugs, particularly those used to treat high blood pressure or hypertension, may induce depression.
The illness of depression is associated with many symptoms — some physical, some mental or emotional.
There is usually a sleep disorder. There may be difficulty in getting to sleep but, more commonly, there is awakening during the night. Sometimes the person may sleep from 10 to 12 hours and wake unrefreshed.
Physical tiredness is common. Irritability is also common.
There are often a number of minor physical disorders as well — headaches, constipation or various aches and pains. Everything becomes an effort. There is no joy in life, in routine or special events. There is usually a loss of interest in sex.
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