The life of a veteran is not easy. For many veterans, the disabilities are not physical but rather mental. Some veterans struggle to get back to real life and adopt a civilian lifestyle. The good news is that whether it is a physical disability or a mental one, VA has compensation for afflicted veterans.
In this article, we shall discuss the possible relation of sleep apnea with PTSD and what manner of compensation you can get. We shall also include some tips for veterans suffering from apnea.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is one of the most devastating and uncomfortable sleep disorder. It is a condition in which a person may stop breathing during the night. Not only does sleep apnea cause extreme discomfort, but you may also find yourself sweating heavily in the middle of the night. Unfortunately, it is rather common in veterans who have been through severe mental stress. Reports suggest that nearly 60% of the veterans suffer from sleep apnea.
There are several types of sleep apnea, all of which are quite similar. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form and occurs when the muscles in the throat fail to keep the airway open, leading to breathing interruptions. Central sleep apnea (CSA) occurs when the brain fails to transmit the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Complex sleep apnea syndrome (CSAS) is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.
The possible causes of sleep apnea are either neurological disorders, or a muscle disruptive issue.
There are a few obvious signs of sleep apnea, which indicate that a person is suffering from this disorder. They include:
- Loud snoring
- Breathless episodes while sleeping at night
- Headaches in the morning
- Unrestful feeling despite having slept all the night
PTSD Can Cause Sleep Apnea Indirectly
It is no secret that PTSD can indirectly be the cause of many disorders. One of the major disorders that PTSD causes is sleep apnea. The relation, though indirect, can be a particularly strong one. So how does PTSD cause sleep apnea? Given below are some of the main reasons.
Hyperarousal and Increased Muscle Tension
People with PTSD often experience hyperarousal, a state of heightened alertness and physiological arousal. This can lead to increased muscle tension, including the muscles in the throat. The heightened muscle tone in the upper airway can make it more difficult for air to flow freely, potentially resulting in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Nightmares and Sleep Disturbances
Individuals with PTSD frequently experience nightmares and vivid, distressing dreams related to their traumatic experiences. These nightmares can cause abrupt awakenings, often accompanied by intense fear and anxiety. The frequent disruptions to sleep can contribute to sleep fragmentation and poor sleep quality, which can further exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms.
Hypervigilance and Sleep Disruptions
PTSD can lead to hypervigilance, a state of constant alertness and heightened responsiveness to potential threats. This hypervigilance can interfere with the ability to relax and fall asleep, making it harder to enter deep, restorative sleep stages. Poor sleep architecture and decreased sleep efficiency can impact respiratory control during sleep and potentially worsen sleep apnea symptoms.
Psychological and Emotional Factors
The emotional distress and psychological symptoms associated with PTSD, such as anxiety, depression, and high levels of stress, can indirectly impact sleep apnea. These factors can disrupt normal sleep patterns, increase arousal levels, and contribute to sleep disturbances, potentially worsening existing sleep apnea or increasing the risk of developing it.
You must know that if you suffer from sleep apnea, claiming compensation for this disorder is absolutely possible. Like all disorders, sleep apnea requires treatment. The medical expenses may pile up, especially when your income doesn’t cover everything. However, there are several ways to claim compensation for sleep apnea as a veteran.
Before we dive into details of the process, please understand that it is a complex one. Frustration and mental fatigue is not an uncommon reaction. However, the more you are prepared beforehand, the lesser the chance of your compensation getting rejected.
Establish Service Connection
The first step is to establish a connection between your sleep apnea and your military service. In order to qualify for compensation, you must show that your sleep apnea is related to an event, injury, or condition that occurred during your time in the military. This can include exposure to certain hazards, respiratory conditions, or other factors that can contribute to sleep apnea.
Seek Medical Evaluation
It is important to undergo a thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare professional who can diagnose your sleep apnea and provide supporting documentation. Schedule an appointment with your local Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center or a private healthcare provider who is familiar with the VA system. Always remember that you can seek medical evaluation either from the VA-assigned medical authority or get IMO (Independent Medical Opinion). Make sure to inform your doctor or healthcare professional about your compensation. All your medical records must be present when you submit a claim.
Gather Supporting Documents
Include any relevant documentation that supports your claim, such as your military service records, medical records, sleep study results, and any other evidence that connects your sleep apnea to your military service. This evidence will help strengthen your case.
Submit a Claim
Once you have the necessary medical evidence, you can submit a VA claim for compensation rating to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). You can do this online through the VA's eBenefits portal or by filling out a paper application and mailing it to the VA regional office that handles your area.
Appeal if Necessary
After submitting your claim, the VA will review the evidence and make a decision regarding eligibility for VA Disability Benefits. It can be quite tedious and heartbreaking to have your claim rejected. However, if your claim is denied or you disagree with the decision, you have the right to appeal within a specific timeframe. It is crucial to consult with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or an attorney specializing in veterans' benefits to assist you with the appeals process.
Always Remember!
Throughout the process, it is important to respond promptly to any requests for additional information from the VA. Keep copies of all correspondence and maintain open communication with your VSO or attorney to ensure that your claim is being handled appropriately.
