Q I heard that having depression raises dementia risk. Can depression and forgetfulness be treated together?
A Depression shrinks the brain's hippocampus and more than doubles dementia risk. Memory often improves along with treating depression, so addressing both together is effective.
Detailed Answer
Depression damages the hippocampus through excessive cortisol secretion and worsens cognitive function through social isolation and reduced sleep. When depression is resolved, concentration and memory often improve markedly, so managing both conditions together is important.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, depression and anxiety are seen as stagnation of heart qi (心气) and liver qi (肝气). Releasing the qi of the heart and liver with formulas in the Guibi-tang or Gamisoyo-san families stabilizes mood and sleep, and as a result the qi and blood flowing to the brain also become clearer, helping cognitive recovery.
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