There are many different types of sleep disorders. Some may be caused by other underlying health conditions. However, we will look at the two main types, Insomnia and Sleep Apnea.
Insomnia refers to the inability to fall asleep or to remain sleep. It can be caused by stress and anxiety, hormones or digestive problems. It may also be a symptom of another condition.
Insomnia in the military is up 650 percent since 2003. From 1997 to 2011, reported rates of insomnia soared, the study found, a trend that spiked considerably following the 2003 invasion of Iraq. This is a direct association between the disorder and exposure to combat. In the eight years following the invasion, the rate of insomnia, which is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, diabetes, stroke, depression, and anxiety, skyrocketed 652 percent among military personnel. It was also found that post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries suffered as a result of combat deployments have been identified as known to also lead to insomnia, in addition, so will Moral Injury. Unfortunately, while most of the other medical problems were treated and solved before the personnel were discharged, insomnia remains.
Sleep Apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. This is a serious medical condition that causes the body to take less oxygen. It can also cause you to wake up during the night. Many of our Veterans returned home still suffering this problem. Sleep Apnea is one of the most common conditions among Veterans.
Other sleep problems include; parasomnias where abnormal movements and behaviors take place, during sleep, such as: sleepwalking, sleep talking, groaning, nightmares, bedwetting, teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
 |
| File Photo |
This problem is often associated with certain health conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Parkinson’s disease, but the exact cause isn’t always known.
Narcolepsy is characterized by “sleep attacks” that occur while awake. This means that you will suddenly feel extremely tired and fall asleep without warning.
All of the above conditions should be seen by a medical doctor.
Ideas that may help you sleep
1. Reports indicate that those who take a shower or bath before going to bed often sleep better.
2. Since stress, anxiety or depression will keep one awake, try to avoid them while attempting to go to sleep. One way is to concentrate on your breathing by thinking about every breath when it comes in and goes out.
3. Some reports say that wearing clean socks to bed can be a help.
Seven (7) hours of sleep a night is what we need to stay healthy