Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is considered to be a psychological injury resulting from exposure, directly or indirectly, to a traumatic event…
This could be anything which instils fear, helplessness or horror, for example threat of death, a serious illness or accident. It is a normal response to feel overwhelmed by such events as the mind and body are in shock, and almost everyone experiences at least some of the symptoms of PTSD. For most people these reactions are short lived, gradually lifting over a few weeks. However, it is estimated that about 1 in every 3 people will develop post traumatic stress disorder.
PTSD develops differently from person to person because everyone’s nervous system and tolerance for stress is a little different. In most cases, the symptoms develop during the first month after a traumatic event. PTSD develops differently from person to person because everyone’s nervous system and tolerance for stress is a little different. But in a minority of cases, there may be a delay of months or even years before symptoms start to appear.
The science of PTSD
Studies have shown that there are significant physical changes in the brain structures – the amygdala and hippocampus-of those who develop PTSD. The amygdala is the part of the brain most notably involved in emotional responses and the formation of emotional memories. Trauma has been shown to increase activity in the amygdala region.
The hippocampus, part of the limbic system of the brain, is responsible for memory and experience assimilation. Research has shown that ongoing stress as a result of severe and chronic PTSD may ultimately cause the hippocampus to shrink, with the result that the sufferer experiences difficulties storing and recalling information relating to the traumatic event.
The symptoms of PTSD
The specific symptoms of PTSD, which varies widely between individuals, can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life. Sufferers may be very anxious and find it difficult to relax. They may be constantly aware of threats and easily startled. Some people with PTSD experience long periods when their symptoms are less noticeable, followed by periods where they get worse. Other people have constant severe symptoms. Some people have constant negative thoughts about their experience, repeatedly asking themselves questions that prevent them coming to terms with the event. For example, they may wonder why the event happened to them and if they could have done anything to stop it, which can lead to feelings of guilt or shame.
Flashbacks
One of the most characteristic and debilitating symptoms of PTSD is the sufferer often relives the traumatic event through nightmares and flashbacks which can come on suddenly and feel uncontrollable. Repetitive and distressing images or sensations may be experienced, along with physical sensations, such as pain, sweating, feeling sick or trembling. The malfunctioning hippocampus may prevent flashbacks and nightmares being properly processed, so the anxiety they generate does not reduce over time.
Avoidance and emotional numbing
Trying to avoid being reminded of the traumatic event is another key symptom of PTSD. This usually means avoiding certain people or places that remind you of the trauma, or avoiding talking to anyone about your experience. Many people with PTSD try to push memories of the event out of their mind, often distracting themselves with work or hobbies. Some people attempt to deal with their feelings by trying not to feel anything at all. This is known as emotional numbing. This can lead to the person becoming isolated and withdrawn, and they may also give up pursuing activities they used to enjoy.
High adrenaline levels
Studies have shown that people with PTSD may have abnormal levels of stress hormones. Normally, when in danger, the body produces stress hormones like adrenaline to trigger a reaction in the body. This reaction, often known as the “fight or flight” reaction, helps to deaden the senses and dull pain. People with PTSD have been found to continue to produce high amounts of fight or flight hormones even when there is no danger. It is thought this may be responsible for the numbed emotions and hyperarousal experienced by some people with PTSD
Hyperarousal often leads to:
- irritability
- angry outbursts
- sleeping problems (insomnia)
- difficulty concentrating but may include panic attacks, depression, inability to concentrate
These symptoms can be severe and persistent.
How to alleviate symptoms
Lifestyle choices
- Practice breathing exercises – we tend to hold our breath when tense or fearful resulting in lack of oxygen to brain
- Meditation
- Mindfulness
- Relaxing massage
- Exercise – releases endorphins
- Outdoor activities
- Yoga
- Healthy diet
- Techniques to induce ‘good’ sleep
Avoid excess alcohol and recreational drugs as they give short term escape but actually amplify negative feelings in the longer term
BioMed can also help ameliorate many of the physical and emotional symptoms of PTSD, by formulating an individually designed protocol of BIOREGULATORY MEDICINE.
PTSD and Covid-19
Latest information from one of BioMed’s main suppliers of Bioregulatory Medicine:
“Besides immune modulation, an important topic is the management of stress disorders. We are observing a high increase in behavioral disorders and anxiety while we estimate a subsequent increase in depressive symptoms in the upcoming weeks, due to the high levels of uncertainty and stress we are living. Moreover, stress can have a detrimental effect on immune defenses! We are also witnessing many cases of post-traumatic stress disorder, especially among healthcare professionals.
Guna products for managing PTSD-related symptoms:
- Guna-Mood: as it contains 5HTryptophan and Serotonin. For the management of depression-like symptoms, sadness, negative inner dialogue, etc.
Standard dosage: 20 drops twice a day every day.
- Anti Age Stress: for the management of symptoms related to stress with somatizations, emotional discomfort, anxiety.
Standard dosage: 5 pellets twice a day every day.
- Guna-BDNF: cognitive decline symptoms, especially in older patients.
Standard dosage: 20 drops twice a day every day.
- Guna-Sleep: one of the most common symptom of PTSD is insomnia and, in general, sleep impairment.
Standard dosage: 20 drops twice a day every day”
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