Do you have PTSD? Learn how this condition affects your physical health

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) either Post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD is a condition that results from an extremely stressful or frightening event, either from being part of it or witnessing it. Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, intense anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Many people who experience traumatic events may have difficulty adjusting and coping for a short period of time.

However, over time, people get better. This often happens when they take care of themselves and take therapy along with medication. Seeking treatment after PTSD symptoms begin to appear can help relieve symptoms and help people function better.

PTSD doesn’t just affect your mental health, it also affects your physical health. See how PTSD can affect your physical well-being.

Chronic pain

PTSD can cause chronic pain conditions to develop or worsen. The body’s heightened response to stress can lead to muscle tension, headaches, and increased sensitivity to pain, which may manifest as fibromyalgia, arthritis, or other chronic pain disorders. This pain is often persistent and can affect a person’s daily functioning.

Cardiovascular problems

People with PTSD are at increased risk for cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. The chronic stress associated with PTSD increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can strain the cardiovascular system and lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

Gastrointestinal problems

PTSD can affect normal digestive function, leading to gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and ulcers. Constant stress affects the gut-brain axis, leading to disruptions in digestion, absorption, and intestinal motility, all of which can lead to long-term digestive discomfort and disorders.

Weakened immune system

The stress response in PTSD can affect the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections and illness. The weakened immune response can also slow the body’s ability to recover from injuries and illnesses, thereby prolonging recovery times and increasing the risk of autoimmune diseases.

Sleep disorders

PTSD often causes sleep disturbances, including insomnia, nightmares, and sleep apnea. Poor sleep quality or lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, impaired cognitive function, and weakened immune system, further exacerbating physical health problems.

Substance abuse

People with PTSD may turn to substances such as alcohol, nicotine, or drugs to cope with their symptoms. These substances can lead to physical health problems, such as liver damage, breathing problems, and an increased risk of cancer. Substance abuse also exacerbates the physical symptoms of PTSD, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.

Metabolic disorders

PTSD is linked to metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. Chronic stress and disturbed sleep patterns can lead to hormonal imbalances, increased appetite, and unhealthy eating habits, all of which cause weight gain and insulin resistance, thereby increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.