From the Guidelines
Depression can indirectly cause increased respirations, particularly during episodes of severe anxiety or panic attacks that often accompany depression. According to the American Thoracic Society statement 1, psychological distress, including depression and anxiety, is common in patients with advanced respiratory diseases and can compromise their quality of life. The statement highlights that anxiety can cause dyspnea, and conversely, dyspnea can also cause anxiety.
During episodes of severe anxiety or panic attacks, a person may experience hyperventilation or rapid breathing, as anxiety activates the body's fight-or-flight response, triggering the release of stress hormones like adrenaline that increase heart rate and respiratory rate. Additionally, some individuals with depression may experience psychomotor agitation, a state of restlessness that can manifest as faster breathing. However, it's essential to note that depression more commonly causes changes in breathing patterns during sleep, such as sleep apnea, rather than persistent daytime tachypnea (rapid breathing).
The 2012 American Thoracic Society statement 1 emphasizes the importance of assessing dyspnea, a complex symptom that potentially warns of a critical threat to homeostasis, and its relationship with psychological, social, and environmental factors. The statement highlights that dyspnea can lead to adaptive responses, such as resting or seeking medical care, and that protracted or intractable dyspnea causes suffering and impaired performance and quality of life.
Key points to consider:
- Depression and anxiety can contribute to increased respirations, particularly during episodes of severe anxiety or panic attacks.
- Dyspnea is a complex symptom that can be influenced by psychological, social, and environmental factors.
- Proper treatment of both the respiratory symptoms and underlying depression may be necessary, and may include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and breathing techniques or relaxation exercises.
It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if someone with depression experiences consistently increased respirations without anxiety symptoms, as this could indicate a separate medical condition requiring evaluation.
From the Research
Relationship Between Depression and Respiratory Symptoms
- Depression has been linked to increased respiratory symptoms, including dyspnea, wheezing, and breathlessness 2, 3.
- Studies have shown that symptoms of depression are an independent determinant for dyspnea, and that the onset of symptoms of depression can lead to the development of dyspnea 2.
- The relationship between depression and respiratory symptoms is complex, and may be influenced by factors such as anxiety, bronchial responsiveness, and other comorbidities 3.
Impact of Depression on Respiratory Disease
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) has been associated with an increased risk of respiratory disease, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and pneumonia 4.
- The prevalence of COPD and asthma is higher in individuals with MDD compared to the general population, with women and younger people being at particular risk 4.
- Depression may exacerbate respiratory symptoms, and vice versa, highlighting the need for comprehensive treatment approaches that address both mental and physical health 2, 3.
Treatment Implications
- Combination therapy with benzodiazepines and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be effective in treating comorbid anxiety and depression, which can help alleviate respiratory symptoms 5.
- Breathing techniques, such as meditation and relaxation, may also be beneficial in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and improving respiratory function 6.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between depression and respiratory disease, and to develop effective treatment strategies that address the complex interplay between mental and physical health 2, 3, 4.