by Jim Fausone
Veterans Disability Lawyer

The research continues on veterans and sleep apnea. A study presented in May 2011 at the American Psychiatric Association’s annual meeting suggests that sleep disturbances like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), excessive awakening and insomnia, may be a normal result of combat experience and not specifically related to PTSD or TBI.

However, the sleep study participants did not have a higher rate of OSA than non-veteran sleep clinic participants, calling into question the commonly held view that sleep apnea and related sleep disorders are a function of PTSD and TBI. Rather, they appear to be a function of experiencing stress under combat conditions, even if that stress does not rise to the level of PTSD.

As we have written before, OSA is an increasingly approved rating by VA. You may find the article on the study of interest.

http://www.healthnewsdigest.com/news/Research_270/Sleep_Disruptions_May_Be_a_Function_of_Combat_Not_Specific_to_PTSD_or_Other_Medical_Disorders.shtml

To learn more or to contact a Veterans disability lawyer, Veterans disability attorney, Veterans lawyer, or Veterans attorney call 1.800.693.4800 or visit Legalhelpforveterans.com

The number of veterans receiving disability benefits for a sleeping disorder has increased 61% in the past two years and now costs taxpayers more than $500 million per year, according to Veterans Affairs data.  Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC has seen an increase in appeals for this disability.  At present, there is not a good reason why 20% of veterans suffer from sleep apnea and only 5 % of the population.  Could it be the respiratory exposures from service?  To read a USA Today article on this topic click on the link below.

http://www.vawatchdog.com/10/nf10/nfjun10/nf060710-2.htm