PTSD Flashcards
True/False: PTSD is a normal event that happens after a traumatic event
False. It is an anxiety disorder that follows a traumatic event and is debilitating to those it affects
Risk factors for developing PTSD
Woman - more sx and longer duration
Events involving masses of people
Sudden/unexpected loss of a loved one
Three Core Sx of PTSD and how many of each is needed for dx
Re-experiencing: 1
Avoidance: 3
Arousal: 2
What is required in the DSM-IV of the event?
Experienced/witnessed by patient
In real danger of death/injury
Response was fear, horror, etc
How long do sx have to cause distress/impairment until before being able to be diagnosed?
1 month
Explain the difference between acute, chronic and delayed onset PTSD
Acute <3 months
Chronic ≥3 months
Delayed onset not seeing sx until at least 6 months after the event
Comorbid Disease State Considerations
MDD Anxiety Substance Abuse Sleep disorders Suicidal Ideation
Comorbid Disease State Considerations
MDD Anxiety Substance Abuse Sleep disorders Suicidal Ideation
First Line
SSRI Helps with: sleep, nightmares, re-experiencing Does not help with: Avoidance sx Dosing: Start low and go slow Adequate trial length: 6-8 weeks
First Line
SSRI Helps with: sleep, nightmares, re-experiencing Does not help with: Avoidance sx Dosing: Start low and go slow Adequate trial length: 6-8 weeks
Which SSRI do we avoid and why?
Paxil
Lots of Anti-Ach - hypotension
Weight gain
Which SSRI do we avoid and why?
Paxil
Lots of Anti-Ach - hypotension
Weight gain
What side effects are most common?
GI upset when initiating and changing dose
Sexual dysfunction
What side effects are most common?
GI upset when initiating and changing dose
Sexual dysfunction
What side effects are rarer and more serious?
GI bleed
SR syndrome
SIADH
