C-PTSD, Emetophobia, and The Dentist

[m0ndaymay]

So how does a person with severe debilitating emetophobia (it's a symptom of my C-PTSD) get through dental work?  Especially dental work that triggers the gag reflex?  And sedation to control the gag reflex can cause nausea as a side-effect.  Ugh! 

I know nobody likes to gag or vomit, but I get retraumtized each time this happens.  Nobody seems to understand this, not even the "professionals".... and if one more person says to me, "Well I hate throwing up too" .................

[gsryoga]

Thanks May for sharing that with us. I never heard of the term "emetophobia" before and therefore looked it up.

I honestly don't think people who do not suffer from PTSD understand its symptoms. I personally find that equally as miserable as the disorder itself. Wouldn't it be nice to have a little support just like those that suffer from other physical illnesses. Remember, PTSD is just as much -- if not more -- a neurological problem as it is a psychological one!

[m0ndaymay]

Thank you gsryoga.  It's so frustrating because  those of us with PTSD "look fine" so what's the problem, right?  I'm just venting because I'm very frustrated today.

[Grandma]

I am unable to go to the dentist either, but for a different and definitely related reason.  When my mouth is forced open and filled with something I cannot push out, I have some of the worst flashbacks I have ever experienced.  I haven't been to the dentist in over 10 years and have no plans to ever go again.