Question:
In December last year I was involved in a serious accident which killed the driver and another passenger of the car I was.
The car hit a patch of ice, turned over and hit a tree.
For reasons I really don’t understand, I walked away with very minor injuries, and although I was taken to hospital and checked over I didn’t have to stay in.
Since then I’ve not been sleeping well and have woken up with nightmares – I also get really bad headaches out of the blue.
The other night, I was sitting with some friends playing cards when I started to shake and feel sick. Apparently I turned as white as a sheet and nearly passed out.
One of my friends took me to hospital but, after testing me, they said it was probably stress. That’s just daft as I couldn’t have been more relaxed at the time.
I’m beginning to think there is something wrong with me as a result of the accident that they are missing.
Should I ask my doctor for a referral to a consultant?
Answer:
I certainly think you should see your doctor, who will know more of your recent medical history than a hard-pressed A&E department.
While there is a chance something is physically wrong, it may well be the stress the hospital was referring to was Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
People think this is only something affecting those who have been in a war situation, but in fact it is estimated between 5-8 per cent of the population have the condition.
Anyone who has been exposed to a life-threatening event can be affected, particularly if, as in your case, others have died.
Symptoms like yours are recognised as being typical responses to the accident you experienced, but the diagnosis of PTSD is considered only if they persist for longer than three months.
Assist Trauma Care (www.assisttraumacare.org.uk) offers support for people who have experienced a dreadful accident or other traumatic event.
Its helpline on 01788 560 800 (weekdays 10am to 4pm) offers the opportunity to talk through what has happened to you.