The Symptoms Aren't Always in Your Head

[Kia]

I really believe it is important to highlight some of the more unusual symptoms of Postnatal Illness in its many forms. I have been having another look around the web, and there isn't much out there specific to this topic i.e Physical symptoms of PNI. Perhaps this isn't so surprising, but it doesn't negate the fact that for many many sufferers, the physical symptoms are just as real as the mental ones. I found the following article on Care2.com really helpful (though it isn't specific to PNI) and I think it breaks down some of the main physical symptoms of depression and associated research in a straightforward way:

"There are obvious signs of depression, like feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety–but depression can also cause unexplained physical symptoms. Physical pain and depression are closely related. Simply put, pain can be depressing, and depression causes and intensifies pain. Some research shows that pain and depression share common pathways in the limbic (emotional) region of the brain. In fact, the same chemical messengers control pain and mood. According to an article published by the Harvard Medical School, people with chronic pain have three times the average risk of developing psychiatric symptoms–usually mood or anxiety disorders–and depressed patients have three times the average risk of developing chronic pain. Many people suffering from depression never get help because they don’t realise that pain may be a symptom of depression. The importance of understanding the physical symptoms of depression is that treating depression can help with the pain–and treating pain can help with depression."

The article goes on to explain in more depth the links between depression and the following nine physical symptoms; Headaches, Back Pain, Muscle Aches and Joint Pain, Chest Pain, Digestive Problems (queasiness, nausea, diarrhea and chronic constipation), Exhaustion and Fatigue, Sleep Disturbances, Changes in Appetite or Weight.

Of course it's a very good idea to get any physical complaints like those listed above checked out by your GP, they could be linked to any number of other illnesses. My point is however, how many of us might recognise them as a possible direct link with Depression and Anxiety?

As further food for thought, have a look at yet another brilliant, honest and insightful post from Katherine Stone. Gosh that woman deserves a knighthood! 

Postpartum Depression Symptoms Aren't Always in Your Head

Anyone else got any other symptoms or experiences they want to share? Please do... 

Kia x