Correlation between Iraq Veterans PTSD and Medical Illness

A recent study shows that military veterans who experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may also experience more medical problems than military vets without this disorder. While the reasons for the discrepancy are unclear, researchers did find that female veterans are more likely to experience a higher number of medical ailments than men.

Researchers used a group of 90,000 veterans who had returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and visited the U.S. Veterans Health Administration to perform this study. Out of this group, approximately 30,600 male and female veterans were diagnosed with PTSD.

Over the course of the study, researchers discovered 222 types of medical conditions in the group of veterans. Approximately 32% of females who experienced PTSD were diagnosed with 10 or more conditions compared to 11% of females without PTSD. Among the males, 20% with PTSD had a high number of medical ailments, as opposed to 7% without any mental health conditions.

While there's no direct correlation between PTSD and increased medical conditions, several theories have emerged. One is that the stress of PTSD changes the neuroendocrine system, in turn affecting the body's biological processes. Those with PTSD may also engage in certain behaviors that can affect their health, such as consuming alcohol or smoking.

If your military veteran is experiencing PTSD, getting treatment is important. Proper treatment may not only improve quality of life; it could also improve physical health. 

You Have the Power to Help a Disabled American Veteran!

It is crucial that veterans with PTSD take care of both their mental and physical health. Medical evidence is a critical component in the successful fight for veterans' disability benefits. Unfortunately, many veterans lack the financial resources to obtain an independent medical exam (IME) that can provide this crucial evidence.

At Care for Disabled Veterans we focus on connecting qualified veterans to doctors and health care facilities that provide IME services for disability claims. We are a non-profit organization that relies on donations to help provide the funding necessary to obtain these records and help disabled American veterans qualify for combat-related disability benefits. Request our free guide for veterans and caregivers or contact us today to learn more - 1-877-617-2170.