Q：
How PTSD affects brain?
A:
After experiencing or witnessing traumatic events, several chemical and biological imbalances may present. There are three major brain function dysregulations that can be triggered or even exacerbated by PTSD:
- Overstimulated amygdala: Amygdala is responsible for threat identification and tagging memories with emotion. Traumatic events can put amygdala in a highly alert state, thus perceiving threat everywhere.
- Ineffective variability: The sympathetic nervous system in the brain remains highly activated after traumas, leading to fatigue, and affecting the system of adrenal.
- Underactive hippocampus: The stress hormone glucocorticoid appears after traumatic events kills cells in the hippocampus, which makes it difficult for memory consolidation.
Keyword: ptsd brain
