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22nd February 2024
Presentation
PTSD usually presents within 6 months of the traumatic event occurring.
Symptoms of PTSD usually fall into 3 categories, see table below.
| Re-experiencing | Hyperarousal / Emotional numbness | Rumination / Avoidance |
|---|---|---|
| Vivid flashbacks of the traumatic event, cause the patient to “relive” the trauma | Emotional numbness or a sense of detachment. This leads to difficulty in forming close relationships | Avoidance of situations which can trigger flashbacks or memories of the event. Can present as avoidance of crowded places, loud noises etc |
| Nightmares relating to the trauma | Hypervigilance or hyperarousal and difficulty in relaxing | Preoccupation with work or hobbies to avoid memories of the traumatic event |
| Triggers which remind them of the trauma | Irritability, agitation or angry outbursts without provocation and crying | Negative thoughts or feelings of low self-worth |
| Repetitive sensory reminders of the trauma e.g. images, smells or sensations which cause distress | Insomnia | Difficulty concentrating on other things apart from the trauma |
| Intrusive memories of the event, reminding them of the trauma | Amnesia of parts of the traumatic event | |
| Prominent startle reflex, exaggerated response to something unexpected |
The three categories of PTSD, BMJ best practice. Post-traumatic stress disorder [Internet]. BMJ ; 2023 [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/430/management-approach
Physical symptoms of gastrointestinal upset, joint pains and headaches can also be present. Symptoms can be debilitating and distressing and have a substantial effect on day-to-day functioning.
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