Somatic Symptom Disorder Ups PTSD Risk

In somatic symptom disorder, patients develop too much focus on physical symptoms, such as pain, weakness or shortness of breath, which causes them significant distress and often creates problems for normal function, according to the American Psychiatric Association.

PTSD Increases Risk of Early Stroke, TIA in Young Veterans

More Significant Risk Factor than Diabetes, Sleep Apnea CHAPEL HILL, NC—Developing posttraumatic stress disorder as a young adult doubles a veteran’s risk of a transient ischemic attack before middle age, according to a new study. The research, published in the Stroke...

Benzodiazepines Prescribed Long-Term for COPD/PTSD

SEATTLE — Symptoms of insomnia and anxiety are common among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and that is especially the case among patients with comorbid mental health disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder, according to a new study.

History of Abuse, PTSD Worsen Menopausal Symptoms

SAN FRANCISCO—Emotional abuse from a partner or spouse can increase the risk of heightened menopause symptoms, as can post-traumatic stress disorder, according to a VA-led study. Little is known about the prevalence of traumatic exposures among midlife and older women...

VA Seeks to Resolve Questions about Prazosin for PTSD Nightmares

For years, prazosin has appeared to be one of the most effective medications for treating the nightmares associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, but that treatment is being called into questions by findings from two recent studies that patients with PTSD who received a placebo did as well or better than those who received prazosin.