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Treating the Physical and Psychological Wounds of War
With a surge of new troops heading to Iraq, combat hospitals are bracing for more casualties. The dedicated doctors and nurses who care for injured soldiers aren't just serving in the war theater, many are in our backyard. News10's Cristina Mendonsa takes you inside David Grant Medical center at Travis Air Force Base where the airmen from the 60th Medical Group take care of combat-injured soldiers and Marines every day. Read Cristina's blog here.
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David Grant Medical Center
 60th Air Mobility Wing
V.A. Transition Help
Adopt a Soldier

During the civil war it was called "Soldier's Heart." Later it would be called "Battle Fatigue," "Shell Shock," "Combat Stress" and finally "Post Traumatic Stress Disorder." Eighteen percent of those serving in Iraq are coming home with severe symptoms. However, thanks to science, we now have a better understanding of what happens to a soldier's body and brain under stress. That knowledge is the key to helping them overcome traumatic and intrusive memories.

How PSTD Happens
1. Hormones released during stress trigger the amygdala portion of the brain which in turn, releases the flight-or-fight hormone norepinephrine.
2. The amygdala also signals the brain to put the senses on high alert and to record the next few minutes of memory in vivid detail.
3. Each time you recall that event, the stress hormones released burn it deeper.
PTSD Symptoms

Re-experiencing Trauma
flashbacks
nightmares
intrusive memories
exaggerated reactions

Emotional Numbing
feeling detatched
lack of emotions
loss of interest in activities

Avoidance
avoiding activities, people or places that remind one of trauma

Increased Arousal
difficulty sleeping & concentrating
irritability
hypervigilance
exaggerated startle response
Learn More


 

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