could daughter's panic attacks be a form of PTSD after surgery?

[Sue_G]

My daughter, age 17, has had multiple surgeries over the years, including two Ilizarov leg lengthenings.  She has not been consistently well since the last completed two years ago (lots of GI problems and headaches, along with frequent ankle pain).  Now she has depression and panic attacks and inability to concentrate on schoolwork (she has been sent home from school).  She has just started her third antidepressant (Celexa) hoping to find one to treat the anxiety as well as the depression.  But we also need a good therapist (she was seeing one at school, haven't had luck finding a local one she likes).  We are trying to find the best treatment for her, and my question is the likelihood of this being some form of PTSD - could influence which way we go with therapist search.  Thanks for any help.

[Anxiety_Anonymous]

Hi Sue,

I would have to say given the information in your post that yes her surgeries could be the culprit. Many people have experienced panic attacks for the first time during any major life changes. Surgery and its medications are stressful to the body.

[RubyWitch]

This is kind of a tough one! Did your daughter have any panic attacks BEFORE her surgeries? If NOT, than it would be my humble opinion that the surgeries are, indeed, the culprit. If she had them before the surgeries, it could be a host of issues. Was she treated unkindly at school by classmates that could have left her feeling alone and depressed? Was she anxious about her looks or how this conditon affected her ability to "fit in?"
I think I would consult with her doctors about this and have them recommend a therapist who deals with young people. They have more training dealing with the world of teen-agers.
I wish the best for your daughter.
Peace
Greenlydia