Dual Sympathetic Blocks for PTSD
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disabling psychiatric disorder associated with functional and cognitive impairments which results following exposure to real or perceived physical or mental injury or threat. PTSD is characterized by re-experience and avoidance symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, dissociation, intense negative emotions, problems with sleep and concentration, irritability, increased reactivity, increased startle response, and hypervigilance. As PTSD is one of the strongest correlates of suicidal ideation, lifetime suicide plans, and suicide attempts, PTSD has profound implications at the individual-level and the global health-level. PTSD can significantly impair individual, social and family functioning and high rates of PTSD comorbidity with depression, substance abuse disorders and physical health problems ultimately result in poor individual-level outcomes.
