The question I would like to ask is... can anyone guide me to some literature or studies of the possible long term effects of PTSD (even if you overcome the nightmares etc of the trauma itself). In other words can PTSD permanently alter you even if you "get better".

I was attacked by a pack of dogs 6 years ago and was nearly killed. I developed chronic PTSD which steadily worsened over the next 4 years until I completely withdrew, was no longer able to work (I had absolutely loved my 25 year career) and saw absolutely no future. During this period I went through the gruelling drawn out phase of the criminal matter (in court) regarding the dog attack which finished with the owners admitting guilt and paying a very small fine - the dogs remained alive and, although the owners were more vigilent, the dogs attacked more people. I was on SSRI's, sleeping tablets and for the last two years had seen a psychologist once a week. The civil matter began and the owners claimed from their insurance company so I was "fighting" an insurance company - which I remain unable to do. The psychologist and I eventually agreed I should try hypnotherapy. The hypnotherapy was really effective removing the nightmares and allowing me to think I may be able to get through this. I tried to go back to work (thinking I was now better) but as soon as I left the 'safety' of home I constantly felt the same way you feel for the few seconds after someone gives you big fright - I felt I was in a washing machine and the 'noise' of all this was unmanageable... within days I became incredibly forgetful and just could not concentrate - I also felt I was no longer part of the world. I suppose it was a relapse but without the nightmares. I stopped working after only two months as I was visibly deteriorating. I went onto anti-depressants which have been very good at helping me to feel calmer and to sleep better and I have not gone back to work. Now a year later I cannot manage a stressful situation at all (I deteriorate very quickly), I have a serious problem with my memory (especially short term) and I have no patience.