Talk to Psychiatry on Suffering From Mental Plus Physical Weakness
Asking For Other, Male 75, Attock
My uncle is suffering from depression. He visits a psychiatrist and takes his medicines daily. Some days he feels okay, while other days he feels very low. He is 75 years old and has been taking antidepressants for almost two years. He has never had any vitamin tests or taken any daily supplements. His diet is also poor because he is often unwilling to eat. We now want to do proper tests to check for any deficiencies in his body. Can a lack of certain essential vitamins cause only temporary relief from depression symptoms?
Ms. Anusha Sajjad - Clinical Dietician
BS. HND | Lahore
Complete history is required. But yes Certain medicines in psychiatry can cause deficiencies
I can help and guide you properly
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohammad Jaffar Khan - Psychiatrist
MBBS, MRCPsych ( UK ) | Peshawar
6 Positive Reviews
Clinic please
Aneeqa Amin - Clinical Psychologist
BS Applied Psychology, MS Clinical Psychology, PGD Speech and Language Pathology | Lahore
39 Positive Reviews
It’s good that he is under clinical supervision. Depression is not mainly cause due to the deficiency of vitamins. It’s a medical condition which is diagnosed by following symptoms: like low mood, loss of interest in previously preferred activities, poor sleep, appetite changes, tiredness, lack of concentration or negative thought patterns lasting for weeks, But some vitamin deficiencies like vitamin B12, vitamin D, or iron symptoms resembles with depression like feeling tired or low mood. It’s better to go for testing. You can consult a psychiatrist or doctor to rule out either It’s a vitamin deficiencies or depression.
Dr. Aslam Pervez - Psychiatrist
MBBS, DPM, BCPsych, MRCPsych (UK), FRCPsych (UK), Diploma in Psychiatric Practice (UK) | Karachi
51 Positive Reviews
low appetite common in depression so in this case both physical and mental health needs to be assessed, additionally require dementia screening
Yes deficiencies can definitely affect mood and energy, especially in older adults. Low levels of vitamin B12, vitamin D, folate, and iron as well as thyroid or electrolyte imbalances,can worsen depression or make antidepressants less effective.It is a good idea to get basic blood tests done, including:CBC, thyroid profile (TSH, T3, T4),Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Folate,Electrolytes, liver and kidney function tests improving diet and correcting deficiencies can enhance recovery and make his antidepressants work better. Discuss these tests and supplements with his psychiatrist.
Rizwan Ali Khan - Clinical Psychologist
| MSc (Psychology) | MS (Clinical Psychology) | Certified (Crucial Conversations) | | Lahore
36 Positive Reviews
https://www.marham.pk/doctors/lahore/psychologist/dr-rizwan-ali-khan
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For your uncle suffering from depression and potential nutritional deficiencies, consider the following investigations:
### Blood Tests
- **Complete Blood Count (CBC)**: To check for anemia or infection.
- **Thyroid Function Tests (TFT)**: To evaluate for hypothyroidism, which can contribute to depression.
- **Vitamin B12 and Folate Levels**: To assess for deficiencies that can impact mood and cognitive function.
- **Vitamin D Levels**: Low levels have been associated with depression.
- **Electrolytes Panel**: To rule out imbalances that can affect overall health.
- **Magnesium and Calcium Levels**: Both minerals are important for mental health and muscle function.
- **Liver and Kidney Function Tests**: To ensure these organs are functioning properly, especially if he is on medication.
- **Glucose Level**: To check for diabetes, which can also affect mood.
### Additional Assessments
- **Urinalysis**: To check for any underlying infections or metabolic issues.
- **Mental Health Assessment**: Regular follow-up with a psychiatrist to assess the effectiveness of current treatment and medication.
- **Dietary Assessment**: Consultation with a nutritionist to address his poor diet and consider supplementation.
### Imaging (If Indicated)
- **Brain Imaging (MRI or CT)**: If there are concerns about structural issues in the brain, particularly if there are cognitive changes.
### Disclaimer
Please note that this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always rely on your clinical judgment and consider the specific needs and history of your patient when ordering investigations and interpreting results. I do not know. Ali As
He needs psychological sessions for proper assessment and evaluation, if feasible book your appointment
There are many different factors that might effect one could be vitamin deficiencies or other could be thoughts and behaviour, you can do vitamin D and B complex test along with magnesium but even with that you should also have in mind other factors as well and for that psychotherapy could be helpful, and if he has any other issues that might require assessment to find out cause of the distress
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