Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While many people are familiar with PTSD’s common symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, and nightmares, fewer are aware that it can also manifest in physical ways, such as seizures. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between post-traumatic stress and seizures, delve into the scientific evidence, and provide insights into treatment options.
Understanding Post Traumatic Stress and Seizures
PTSD is a mental health disorder that develops after someone has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. This can include events such as combat, natural disasters, car accidents, or physical assault. People with PTSD may experience a range of symptoms, including intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, heightened arousal, and negative changes in thinking or mood.
What Are Seizures?
Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. They can affect behavior, movements, sensations, or consciousness. Seizures can vary in severity, ranging from brief, mild episodes to full-body convulsions.
The Link Between Post Traumatic Stress and Seizures
Can Post Traumatic Stress Cause Seizures?
Yes, post-traumatic stress can cause seizures in some individuals. The term “psychogenic non-epileptic seizures” (PNES) is used to describe seizures that result from psychological factors, such as stress or trauma, rather than abnormal electrical activity in the brain. While PNES may look similar to epileptic seizures, they have different underlying causes.
How Common Are Post Traumatic Stress Seizures?
Research suggests that PNES is relatively common among individuals with PTSD. A study published in the journal Epilepsy & Behavior found that up to 30% of patients referred to epilepsy centers for seizure evaluation were diagnosed with PNES. This highlights the significant overlap between trauma-related stress and seizure-like symptoms.
Differences Between PNES and Epileptic Seizures
It’s important to differentiate between PNES and epileptic seizures because they require different treatments. While epileptic seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, PNES is triggered by psychological stress or trauma. Unlike epileptic seizures, which often respond to anti-seizure medication, PNES requires psychological intervention.
Why Does Post Traumatic Stress Cause Seizures?
The Role of the Brain and Nervous System
When a person experiences trauma, it can alter the way their brain and nervous system function. The amygdala, a part of the brain responsible for processing fear and emotions, becomes hyperactive in individuals with PTSD. This heightened state of arousal can lead to the development of PNES, as the brain responds to psychological triggers in a physical way.
Stress as a Trigger
Stress plays a significant role in triggering PNES. Individuals with PTSD often experience heightened stress levels, which can increase the likelihood of experiencing a seizure. These seizures are often a result of the body’s attempt to cope with overwhelming stress, and they may be more likely to occur during periods of intense emotional distress.
Past Trauma and Dissociation
Dissociation, a common symptom of PTSD, can also contribute to the development of PNES. During a dissociative episode, a person may feel disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, or surroundings. In some cases, this dissociation can lead to seizure-like activity, especially when the individual is exposed to trauma reminders or triggers.
How Are Post Traumatic Stress Seizures Diagnosed?
Medical Evaluation
If someone is experiencing seizures, it’s essential to undergo a thorough medical evaluation to determine whether the seizures are epileptic or psychogenic. A neurologist may perform tests such as an electroencephalogram (EEG) to monitor brain activity during a seizure. PNES typically does not show the same electrical abnormalities seen in epileptic seizures.
Psychological Assessment
Since PNES is related to psychological factors, a mental health professional may conduct a psychological assessment to identify any underlying trauma, stress, or anxiety that could be contributing to the seizures. A combination of medical and psychological evaluations can provide a more accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Post Traumatic Stress Seizures
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for PNES, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused therapy. These approaches help individuals process trauma, develop coping strategies, and manage stress to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.
Stress Management Techniques
Learning stress management techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques, can help individuals with PTSD manage their symptoms and reduce the likelihood of experiencing PNES.
Medication
While anti-seizure medications are generally ineffective for PNES, medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed to address co-occurring symptoms of PTSD, such as anxiety, depression, or panic attacks.
Support Groups and Aftercare
Joining support groups or engaging in aftercare programs can be beneficial for individuals recovering from PTSD and PNES. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide valuable emotional support and encouragement.
The Importance of Ongoing Support
Mental health coaching programs play a crucial role in helping individuals manage PTSD and PNES. These programs provide continued support, guidance, and resources to ensure a successful recovery. They offer a safe environment where individuals can work on coping strategies, stress management, and trauma processing.
Aligned Living’s Mental Health Coaching Program
If you or a loved one is struggling with post-traumatic stress seizures, consider Aligned Living’s virtual mental health coaching program. Our comprehensive approach offers ongoing support, tailored therapy, and tools to help you manage PTSD and PNES. With the guidance of our experienced team, you can gain control over your symptoms and move forward on your healing journey.
The answer to “can post-traumatic stress cause seizures?” is yes, it can, through the development of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). Understanding the connection between trauma and seizures is essential for seeking the appropriate treatment and support. With the right interventions, individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress seizures can achieve significant improvement and regain control of their lives.
Ready to take the next step in your recovery journey? Contact Aligned Living today to learn more about our virtual mental health coaching program and how we can support you in managing post-traumatic stress seizures.