Why the concern for sleep disorders?
The main reason for sleep disorders or “a poor night’s sleep” among Navy veterans and other soldiers is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The syndrome may be characterized by nightmares that cause the vet to replay terrible scenes from combat during the dream cycle. The nightmares might occur shortly after the experience and continue for weeks, months, or – in some cases – even years. These upsetting dreams are very common among veterans who have been in the midst of war and have seen the unspeakable and are unable to forget their horrid experiences. Sleep apnea has also been proven to be secondary to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Often, however, PTSD is not the only cause of sleep apnea. Other issues contribute as well, such as obesity or tonsillar problems.