A :
B :
C :
D :
E :
F :
G :
H :
I :
J :
K :
L :
M :
N :
O :
P :
Q :
R :
S :
T :
U :
V :
W :
X :
Y :
Z
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Medical Questions » Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
| Name: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder |
| Also known as: PTSD; Shell Shock |
| Occurs after experiencing a situation that causes extreme stress and a feeling of helplessness (eg. armed holdup, serious accident, war violence, being assaulted or raped, observing atrocities etc.). Most symptoms start between two weeks and three months of the triggering catastrophe, but may start as late as six months. |
Causes of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Experience of a threatening or traumatic event, or a period of provoked fear, helplessness or horror. |
Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Patients must have at least one symptom from each of the following
categories: General: Symptom duration more than one month, with significant distress or inability
to function normally in society.
Re-experiencing phenomena: Experience intrusive recollections, nightmares, flashbacks as if the event was
recurring, psychological distress on exposure to cues that may trigger memories, or physiological effects (eg. rapid pulse, rapid breathing) on exposure to cues.
Avoidance behavior: Avoiding thoughts, feelings or conversations about the incident; avoiding places, people or activities connected with the incident; selective amnesia about the traumatic event; reduced interest in everyday activities or detachment from others; unable to look forward to future events with pleasure; or abnormal personality compared to before the incident.
Excessively aroused: Insomnia, irritability, anger, poor concentration, increased vigilance or increased startle response to frights. |
Tests for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
No specific diagnostic tests. |
Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Psychological counseling and debriefing immediately after the event, and a trained counselor should follow up the victim for at least six months. Normal work and activities should be resumed as soon as possible. Referral to a psychiatrist is necessary if the patient does not appear to recover within six months, or deteriorates sooner, when medication may be necessary.
|
Complications of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder of its treatment
May lead to recurrent minor illnesses, poor physical health, and in extreme cases, suicide. |
Likely Outcome of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Usually settles within 3 to 6 months, but may become chronic. |
|
|
