Dr. Cody Aull | West Palm Beach Breathe Free
Dr. Cody Aull | West Palm Beach Breathe Free
- Seasonal depression is a common occurrence during the winter months.
- Around 10 million Americans experience seasonal depression every year.
- Persistent sinus problems may increase the probability of experiencing depression, but treatment can resolve both issues.
"I get excited about seeing a patient as they present their problem. You can see the devastation in their eyes because they see no way to get this fixed. In a few hours, we get all the information. We can paint the picture and show them step-by-step how this is happening, how we're going to fix it, and how they're going to get better," Dr. Aull told Sunshine Sentinel. "It’s like, in some ways, they are instantly better because you've taken the mental anguish, anxiety, and depression away from them. They know that this can be taken care of, and we're going to help them."
A report from Boston University revealed that around ten million Americans encounter seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), annually. This condition may manifest with symptoms such as sadness, lethargy, and changes in weight. Typically, SAD occurs during the winter, marked by shorter days and reduced sunlight, and it tends to impact women more frequently than men. Treatment options for SAD include light therapy and conventional approaches like antidepressant medications.
Additional symptoms that could relate to SAD include oversleeping, weight gain, tiredness, low energy, and appetite changes, specifically cravings for high-carb foods, according to the Mayo Clinic. Doctors there noted that, although experiencing occasional low moods is a common part of life, if you find yourself consistently feeling down for extended periods and struggle to muster enthusiasm for activities you typically enjoy, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. This becomes particularly crucial if you notice changes in your sleep patterns and appetite, rely on alcohol for solace or relaxation, or experience feelings of hopelessness.
According to a study conducted by Houston Advanced Nose & Sinus, up to 25% of individuals dealing with chronic sinusitis also encounter symptoms of depression, in addition to more typical signs of a sinus infection like headaches, facial pain, coughing, and nasal discharge. Addressing sinus infections through medication or procedures like balloon sinuplasty can be an effective treatment for depression stemming from chronic sinusitis.
Dr. Aull earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the University of Health Sciences/Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Missouri, according to West Palm Beach Breathe Free's website. Following that, he finished his residency in otolaryngology and surgery, which included an ENT internship, at Northeast Regional Medical Center in Missouri. He has also served as a flight surgeon in the U.S. Navy.
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