Can Ketamine Infusion Help My PTSD?
PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is a complex and increasingly common mental health issue, affecting millions of American adults from all walks of life. Although PTSD has traditionally been associated with returning combat veterans and people that have experienced catastrophic events, the truth is that anyone can develop and struggle with PTSD.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, over 3% of American adults are diagnosed with PTSD every year, and at least one in 11 people in the United States will develop it over their lifetime.
As with many mental health issues, addressing and asking for help with PTSD symptoms can be difficult and overwhelming. Untreated PTSD can increase the risk of everything from clinical depression and anxiety to suicidal ideation. At Republic Spine and Pain, our interventional medicine doctors and specialists offer ketamine infusion therapy for PTSD at our offices in Austin and Georgetown, Texas.
Can ketamine infusion help my PTSD?
Recent studies have found that ketamine infusions not only help to manage PTSD symptoms but are also fast-acting and long-lasting. For example, ketamine infusions can start to take effect within 24 hours, whereas other medications can take days or even weeks. As anyone experiencing PTSD symptoms can attest, a day can make all the difference when it comes to some of the most debilitating symptoms associated with the condition.
How does ketamine infusion therapy work?
Our team of medical experts offers ketamine infusion and pain management treatments in a safe and comfortable setting.
Ketamine has traditionally been used as an anesthetic for medical treatments and procedures. Unlike other forms of anesthesia, ketamine doesn’t slow your breathing or other circulatory functions.
The infusion is administered through an IV at our office under the supervision of our medical staff. The experience can be compared to getting a dental procedure with mild to moderate sedation, so you’ll want to arrange for someone to pick you up and drive you home after your infusion.
Everyone is different, so the number of infusions you’ll need depends on your symptoms, health profile, and circumstances.
Ketamine infusions are generally recommended for PTSD after more conservative treatment options have failed or provided only limited relief. After a comprehensive evaluation and medical history, our medical team will help you determine if ketamine infusions can help with your PTSD symptoms. If so, we will recommend a personalized treatment plan unique to your needs.
For more information about ketamine infusion therapy and how it can help manage your PTSD symptoms, contact Republic Spine and Pain today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations in Austin and Georgetown, Texas.