Symptoms of an Acute Stress Disorder

Experiencing trauma, whether physical or emotional, can have a profound impact on an individual's well-being. Acute trauma, such as injuries sustained from accidents or sudden events, can lead to a range of symptoms that affect both the body and mind. In this blog, we'll explore the symptoms of acute stress disorder (ASD), a common reaction to acute trauma, brought to you by Dr. Sanjay Joshi of Bayside Orthopaedics.

Understanding Acute Stress Disorder

Acute stress disorder is a psychological condition that occurs in response to a traumatic event. While it shares some similarities with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ASD is characterized by symptoms that develop within one month of the traumatic event and typically last for a minimum of three days and a maximum of one month. If the symptoms persist beyond one month, the individual may be diagnosed with PTSD.

Common Symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder

1. Intrusive Thoughts: Individuals with ASD may experience intrusive and distressing thoughts, memories, or flashbacks of the traumatic event. These thoughts can be recurrent and may interfere with daily activities.
2. Avoidance Behaviors: To cope with the distressing thoughts and memories, individuals with ASD may avoid reminders of the traumatic event. This can include avoiding certain places, people, or activities associated with the trauma.
3. Negative Mood: ASD can lead to persistent feelings of sadness, anger, or guilt. Individuals may have difficulty experiencing positive emotions and may feel detached from others.
4. Hyperarousal: Individuals with ASD may experience heightened arousal or sensitivity to their surroundings. This can manifest as difficulty sleeping, irritability, or hypervigilance.
5. Reactivity: ASD can cause individuals to have an exaggerated startle response or react strongly to stimuli that remind them of the traumatic event. They may also experience physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or racing heartbeat.
6. Dissociation: Some individuals with ASD may experience dissociative symptoms, such as feeling disconnected from their surroundings or themselves. They may also have gaps in their memory or feel as though they are in a dream-like state.

Seeking Help for Acute Stress Disorder

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of acute stress disorder following a traumatic event, it's essential to seek professional help. Dr. Sanjay Joshi and the team at Bayside Orthopaedics are experienced in diagnosing and treating the physical and psychological effects of acute trauma. Treatment for ASD may involve a combination of therapy, medication, and support to help individuals cope with their symptoms and regain a sense of control over their lives.

Conclusion

Acute stress disorder is a common reaction to acute trauma and can have a significant impact on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. Recognizing the symptoms of ASD is the first step towards seeking help and getting the support needed to cope with the effects of trauma. With the guidance and expertise of Dr. Sanjay Joshi and the team at Bayside Orthopaedics, individuals can receive comprehensive care for both their physical and psychological needs following acute trauma.