Are you often depressed? Beware of a stroke!

American scientists have come to disappointing conclusions: depression increases the risk of strokes. However, women taking antidepressants are at particular risk.

Experts came to these conclusions based on an analysis of data collected during the Nurses' Health Study, which began in 1976. 12 thousand women aged about 60 years came under the supervision of doctors. From time to time, the researchers assessed their level of depression and also asked whether they were taking antidepressants.

At the beginning of the experiment, depression was detected in 22% of the participants. Six years later, scientists recorded 1,033 strokes. Experts estimate that depression increased the risk of stroke by 29%. Among women taking antidepressants, the risk increased to 39%.

According to Dr. Catherine Rexroad, who led the study, depressed women were more likely to be lonely, smoke heavily, be overweight and lead a sedentary lifestyle. Depression likely triggered inflammation that could damage blood vessels in the heart and brain.