PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) manifests itself in many ways.

The symptoms of PTSD aren't limited to distressing memories and emotional trauma.

In fact, a large body of research has shown that veterans suffering from PTSD are at increased risk for a host of sleep disorders. 

The complex relationship between anxiety, breathing problems, hyperarousal, and intrusive memories makes it difficult to isolate the factors causing these sleep disorders and can complicate treatment. But a couple things are clear; veterans experience sleep disorders at a very high rate, and it is very important for these disorders be treated in addition to targeting the PTSD itself. 

We all know that drinking and driving is dangerous and illegal... but did you know that driving sleepy is just as dangerous as driving drunk? 

Not only do car accidents pose a serious threat for people with chronic sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, but anyone who gets behind a wheel with less than optimal rest could be putting themselves in danger. With a majority of the population admitting to driving while exhausted, that threat of drowsy driving is real.

Sleep apnea can occur in any demographic, but this condition, in which sufferers involuntarily cease to breathe is particularly prevalent among professional football players. Did you know that up to 1/3 of NFL players have sleep apnea? Unfortunately, the very size and strength that allows pro football players to excel at their sport, increases the risk for compromised health off the field. Notably, Reggie White, who played for both the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles died in his early forties. His premature demise was reportedly due, in part, to complications of sleep apnea.

A recent study, conducted by The New England Journal of Medicine recently tested "fifty-two professional players from eight randomly selected NFL teams." The study concluded that obstructive sleep apnea was approximately five times higher in these subjects than in similarly aged adults undergoing the same testing.

This is a significant study because it shows high body mass and thick necks make these athletes more susceptible to sleep apnea. That, in turn, indicates that others with the same characteristics are also at a higher risk for this life-threatening condition.

Commercial bus and train operators are responsible for millions of lives. In recognition of this fact, most are subjected to frequent drug and alcohol testing. However, there is another condition that can cause impaired driving that is often over-looked--sleep apnea.

In the tough economic climate we've been having lately, workers' hours have been cut in order to meet insurance regulations and jobs have been outsourced. To make ends' meet, people have been taking what work they can find. Oftentimes, this means taking shift work in various industries. But working the late shift can mean more than just having an odd schedule; in fact, it can even lead to a sleep disorder. 

Sleep disorders can affect the way people function on a day-to-day basis. According to one study, they may affect certain groups of people more than others. Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) claim they are particularly troublesome for firefighters, who are at an increased risk of motor vehicle accidents and health problems when affected by a sleep disorder.

Since 2009, the number of veterans' claims for sleep apnea has increased by over 150%, USA Today reports.

The surge in reports of sleep apnea can be attributed to growing awareness of the condition, according to officials of the Department of Veterans Affairs. This disorder is becoming increasingly recognized as a serious health concern, which is permitting veterans to apply for and receive appropriate treatment.