Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that affects individuals who have experienced or witnessed traumatic events. Leah will explore the top five secondary conditions she sees in veteran populations related to PTSD, examining the medical literature and research findings to understand the intricate connections between PTSD and these conditions.
Understanding Secondary Conditions
Before delving into the specific conditions, it’s crucial to understand what “secondary conditions” mean in the context of PTSD. These are conditions caused by or aggravated by the primary service-connected disability, which, in this case, is PTSD. These secondary conditions can manifest in various ways and significantly impact the lives of individuals coping with PTSD.
1. Headaches: A Common Secondary Symptom
Headaches, whether tension headaches, migraines, or non-specific generalized headaches, frequently accompany PTSD. Veterans may experience an increase in the intensity and frequency of headaches after developing PTSD. Leah Bucholz refers to an article titled “Migraine Maladaptive Brain Responses to Stress,” published in the Headache journal. The study investigates how repeated stressors can alter normal physiological responses, leading to chronic headaches related to stress.
2. Sexual Dysfunction: A Complex Interplay
Sexual dysfunction disorders, including erectile dysfunction and female sexual arousal disorders, are often linked to both the emotional components of PTSD and the medications prescribed to treat the condition. The use of serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Zoloft and Celexa, is common in PTSD treatment. Leah Bucholz recommends an article titled “Sexual Dysfunction and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Potential Solutions” from The Mental Health Clinician to explore the relationship between SSRIs and sexual dysfunction.
3. Gastrointestinal Disorders: Unraveling the Connection
Gastrointestinal disorders, particularly irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), are frequently associated with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. An article from the Journal of Neuroscience and Rural Practice in 2015 explores the connection between stress, the limbic system, and the enteric nervous system, leading to increased symptoms of IBS.
4. Sleep Apnea: Controversies and Correlations
Sleep apnea is a contentious secondary condition related to PTSD. Many veterans are service-connected for sleep apnea, but proving the causation or aggravation can be challenging. It is important to understand the fragmentation of sleep and abnormalities of rapid eye movement (REM) in causing physiological obstructions leading to obstructive sleep apnea.
5. Weight Gain: An Intermediate Step to Various Conditions
Weight gain as an intermediate step is a significant concern for individuals with PTSD. Compensatory coping mechanisms, such as binge eating or emotional eating, can contribute to obesity, leading to a cascade of health issues. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, coronary artery disease, hypertension, and diabetes can be linked to weight gain. There is a need to establish a direct connection between the weight gain and the service-connected disability.
Conclusion
Leah Bucholz provides valuable insights into the often overlooked secondary conditions associated with PTSD. Understanding these connections is crucial for veterans seeking compensation and healthcare support. The mentioned articles and research findings offer a foundation for individuals and their healthcare providers to build a case for service connection when dealing with these secondary conditions. It is essential to recognize the complex interplay between PTSD and its secondary manifestations to ensure comprehensive care and support for those who have served their countries.
Also read: What to Expect in a TMJ Veterans Disability C&P Exam
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