Although medical professionals are still discovering new reasons for depression and anxiety to this day, we know that a tiny portion in the brain called the amygdala, stores emotional and threatening thoughts and memories from our early childhood to present day.
Anxiety, fear, stress and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) cause extreme side effects. Many individuals have severe nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, hyper-startle responses, loss of interest, and unfortunately, are often suicidal. Numerous military veterans with PTSD have consistent issues with employment, violence, and relationships. These veterans also relive devastating flashbacks on a continual basis. Many people who suffer from PTSD have difficulty sleeping, feel detached and estranged, which can lead to permanent disability.
There are neurotransmitters throughout the entire body that send signals to the brain, alerting you instantaneously of real or perceived danger. Anxiety and PTSD are made up of both psychological and physical symptoms. The psychological part creates the nervousness, fear and worry, while the physical aspect produces sweating, rapid heart palpitations, a rise in blood pressure, nausea and shortness of breath.
When anxiety, depression and PTSD disorders are left untreated or undertreated, several areas of the brain like the hippocampus (regulates emotions) and the prefrontal cortex (decision making, planning abilities) shrink causing long-term damage.
The stark reality is that the “standard of care” treatment for anxiety and PTSD often falls short. When these therapies disappoint, patients need alternatives for their brain and bodily health, cognition and long-term ability to function and experience calm.
The standard care is behavioral therapy, counseling, and anti-anxiety medications. The problem is treatment is often just not enough due to the brain’s complexities, and anti-anxiety meds are addictive. The other issue with standard medications is that they more often than not, become ineffective and are unable to reverse feelings of severe depression. This is called treatment-resistant depression.
Standard Anxiety & PTSD Medication’s Adverse Reactions
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Weight gain
• Loss of sexual desire
• Severe fatigue
• Inability to focus
• Sleep disturbances
• Dry mouth
• Vision issues
• Constipation
• Forgetfulness
• Ineffective in treating PTSD Symptoms
Ketamine
Over the past ten years, Ketamine has been studied in patients with severe depression and PTSD. A rapid instantaneous effect takes place immediately upon the drug being dispensed intravenously. When a well-trained clinician administers ketamine, it can help with symptoms like moodiness, decreased concentration, low self-esteem, impaired sleep, decreased sexual desire, diminished appetite and can even alleviate suicidal thoughts.
During the treatment, the initial infusions usually take place over approximately two weeks with six infusions that are administered every other day. In parts of the brain that control mood and emotions, ketamine infusion creates new connections in the brain. These new neurological connections help the brain to send positive signals to the psyche, along with beneficial physical conditions to the body. The effect is notable within hours, but most patients report the results are instantaneous. These astonishing changes can be seen on brain scans and imaging. And the results can be long-lasting.
Ketamine impacts both mood and anxiety and can result in positive treatment outcomes for the following disorders:
• Severe or Chronic Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post-Partum Depression (PPD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Some Chronic Pain Disorders
Steven Reichbach, MD, Board-Certified Anesthesiologist, specializes in pain management. For more information, please contact their office today at 941-213-4444, or visit their website at findpainrelief.com.
Gulf Coast Ketamine Center
2415 University Parkway, Building #3,
Suite 215, Sarasota, FL 34243
941-213-4444 | www.findpainrelief.com