Physical Conditions Related to PTSD

There are numerous studies showing a relationship between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and physical illness. In a recent article by Associated Press, Carla Johnson, the author describes the relationship between PTSD and physical illness in a recent study conducted by Kubzansky et al through the Harvard School of Public Health and Boston University.  “The burden of war may be even greater than people think,” said Kubzansky.  A study of nearly 2,000 veterans of World War II and Korea suggests that veterans with symptoms of PTSD are at greater risk of heart attacks as they age. In addition, a second study funded by the Army found that soldiers returning from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan with PTSD reported more severe physical health problems, had more doctor visits, and missed more work days one year after combat than those who did not have PTSD diagnosis.

Dr. Joseph Boscarino, associated with the New York Academy of Medicine, has written extensively on this topic.  Dr. Boscarino found in a study of nearly 2,500 men examined 17 years after serving in combat that 7 percent of the men diagnosed with PTSD had suffered a heart attack, compared to 1 percent of those without PTSD (2004).

In an article written for Science News (12-13-97), Boscarino found that Vietnam veterans who developed PTSD after experiencing combat exhibited much higher rates of circulatory, digestive, musculoskeletal, nervous system, respiratory, and infectious disorders following military service than do their comrades who had little exposure to combat and had no subsequent PTSD.

Boscarino postulates that the chronic vigilance and emotional turmoil associated with PTSD may sharply raise or lower levels of stress hormones and after the functions of a number of bodily systems creating physical illnesses.

In addition, the onset of medical illness may result in an exacerbation of PTSD symptoms. Dr. Mark Hamner reported (1994) that PTSD symptoms may become manifest or be exacerbated by physical illness. Medications prescribed for physical illness may increase PTSD symptoms. Therefore, those veterans suffering with PTSD may be on a circular cycle wherein PTSD affects physical well being and vice versa.

The important factor to recognize is that mind and body are connected in a very complex manner. Treatment for PTSD must take into consideration the impact it may have on the body as well as the opposite situation.