Causes and risk factors
The exact causes are not known however certain factors can trigger the complaints.
Family violence, war, rape or physical abuse, death of loved ones, some accidents, and foster care can cause stress disorder. Overuse of certain substances like drugs and alcohol also contribute to post traumatic stress disorder.
Clinical presentation:
The person presents with certain characteristic symptoms which is said to be acute if it lasts for less than three months. The symptoms are stamped as chronic if they persist for more than three months. The patient experiences the symptoms only after the occurrence of the event, prior to that there are no such symptoms seen. The patient may come up with the following complaints or recurrent remembrance of the event, “nightmares, flashbacks”and anxiety. These people tend to become depressed and suffer from various deliriums. Certain physiological changes like palpitation, sweating, trembling can also occur. PTSD if not tackled on time can pose certain other risks. The person can tend towards wrong use of alcohol or drugs or can indulge in Suicidal or homicidal thoughts.
Investigations:
Diagnosis can be made on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and on the basis of complete psychiatric evaluation. Reviewing of the history is the most essential step. All the details are obtained from the family and friends. Close observation in such cases is essential. Investigations can be advised in cases where the doctor suspects any pathology.
Treatment:
Anti psychotic or anti depressant medications are the first lines of treatment in such cases. Psychotherapy plays a major role in this. It comprises of counseling and interpersonal therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy along with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing has found to be effective in such cases. Self efforts in a right way to cope up or overcome the distressing events. Simultaneously timely help not only from the doctors but also from the family can help to overcome the trauma and minimize the suffering. Indulgence in positive recreational activity, inculcating meditational and spiritual support, getting involved in positive recreational activity is the certain steps to be implemented.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms.
Recent update:
A study published in the journal General Hospital Psychiatry found that older adults who experience a serious fall may develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the days following the event.
