Because my abuse started when I was very young under 3 and abuse happened thru 32, I think that PTSD has tempered my life. My "flight or fight" response has always been activated. My triggers are grouped by simliar experences - like getting in an elevator now because I was locked in closets at 3yrs old as punishment. They have in common small tight space that you can't get out of. I don't watch the news nor read the paper because it is stressful. Once in awhile a man will smell simliar to my abuser - a combination of mint, bad breath and sweat - that is extremely upsetting to me.
I think (my personal opinion ONLY) that once you have PTSD it is easier to collect more triggers because your "flight or fight" reflex is turned on. You are more senistive to your environment.

The most successful thing that I have tried to aleveate my triggers is to avoid situations that might agravate my triggers like the plague. I started this about a year ago. Trying to work thru my triggers hasn't worked for me.

I know from reading posts that others have found relief in working thru the "snapshots in time".

But again, I've had many years of abuse.