1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD)

Hyperarousal

By Matthew Tull, PhD, About.com

Updated: January 26, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: A specific cluster of PTSD symptoms. This cluster includes symptoms that stem from experiencing high levels of anxiety, such as:

  • Having a difficult time falling or staying asleep.
  • Feeling more irritable or having outbursts of anger.
  • Having difficulty concentrating.
  • Feeling constantly "on guard" or like danger is lurking around every corner.
  • Being "jumpy" or easily startled.
Explore Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD)
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD)
  4. Glossary
  5. Hyperarousal - Definition of Hyperarousal

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.