Reading about the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) cases of military veterans who faced extreme trauma and deathly scenarios may be difficult, but it becomes even more difficult to imagine it pertaining to children and veterans. However, events such as abuse, accidents, or deep loss can sorely affect people of all ages. The National Center for PTSD states that approximately seven of one hundred adults in America would experience PTSD at one point in time.
Violent or shocking occurrences can severely undermine the everyday functioning of the human hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is a system responsible for stress. If overactive, this system can lead to a plethora of unfortunate symptoms including:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Intrusive thoughts
- Avoidance behaviors
- Angry outbursts
- Heightened startle response
- Persistent anxiety and tension
Those who have tried traditional treatment options without success may want to look into ketamine for anxiety and PTSD, as it is a new and promising possibility. The well-known expert at Neuroplasticity MD, Dr. Yuli Fadkin, provides ketamine therapy for patients with
PTSD. Through her treatment, she aims to help individuals establish mastery over their life again.
How Ketamine Works
Ketamine, an anesthetic and pain reliever, not familiar to many until this past decade, has been used with good outcomes for decades. Since the 1960s it has been used by the military as one of the faster acting options for pain control. In recent years, this anesthetic has gained notoriety for its use in chronic anxiety, depression, and PTSD management.
This substance works by blocking pain receptors in the brain and hypercalming the overactive HPA axis. It further helps these patients by promoting neuroplasticity, that is, the formation of new healthy neural connections sequentially aiding in reversing the long term damage due to stress and trauma.
Unlike many traditional antidepressants that take weeks to notice a change, patients notice a difference with ketamine use within an hours of the treatment. Patients with PTSD are treated with sub anesthetic doses to minimize the risk from sedation and hallucinations.
What to Expect During Ketamine Therapy for PTSD
In the case a suitable option of ketamine therapy is determined by Dr. Yuli Fadkin, treatment would be performed at Neuroplasticity MD where controlled medicine can be provided. This is what to expect.
- You will receive an intravenous (IV) infusion of low dose ketamine over a period of approximately 40 minutes.
- Ketamine therapy for PTSD is given in a controlled environment and private so the patient remains calm and supported throughout the procedure.
- The medical professionals attending to you during your appointment will keep a check on your vitals throughout the session to guarantee your safety, as well as the efficacy of the treatment.
- Many patients report that, during treatment, they experience an overwhelming feeling of relaxation and may have mild alterations in perception.
- After the appointment, it would be reasonable to expect some light drowsiness, and it is highly recommended to have a family member or friend drive you home from your appointment.
How Ketamine Improves PTSD Symptoms
A substantial number of patients that receive ketamine treatment for the first time mention greatly improved results, which include:
- Relieved depression and thoughts of suicide
- Lesser memories and flashbacks from the past
- Lowered state of restlessness and exaggerated reaction to sounds
- Enhanced feelings and control over emotions
In most cases, Dr. Fadkin suggests a routine of six ketamine treatments in two or three sessions a week, over a period of two to three weeks. If the results are not meeting expectations, other plans of action can be considered.
Is Ketamine Right for You?
Ketamine treatment is advisable for patients having difficulty managing their PTSD with standard methods, however, further care must be taken, as it not recommended for all. Those suffering from heart disease, having hyperthyroidism, or bladder malfunction should speak with their primary doctor prior to beginning treatment with ketamine.
If you are searching for ketamine treatments near me,
Neuroplasticity MD under Dr. Yuli Fadkin’s leadership offers advanced PTSD treatment with ketamine therapy. This, and other holistic treatments we provide, strive for symptom alleviation and healthier living in the long run.
Contact Dr. Fadkin to book an appointment and find out how ketamine can enable you to take back control of your life.