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Congressman files resolution supporting veterans with PTSD – Sleep Apnea

February 1st, 2017   |   Posted in: Dr. Halstrom News, Education Centre, silencer-news, Uncategorized

Sam Graves reintroduces resolution addressing cases of sleep apnea.

U.S. Representative Sam Graves introduced a resolution designed to help combat high rates of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other complications facing U.S. veterans. H.Res. 46 addresses the connection between PTSD and sleep apnea, which can lead to a host of other health issues for returning military men and women.

“Our armed service members face so many challenges when they come home from the front lines and work to readjust to life in America. From physical injuries and trauma to conditions like PTSD, the federal government has an obligation to provide veterans the very best care possible throughout their lives,” Graves, the Congressman for Northeast Missouri, said.

PTSD is increasingly prevalent among United States soldiers and veterans, characterized by recurring nightmares and disrupted sleep. Those suffering from PTSD also have a high occurrence of sleep apnea. According to studies, 54 percent of patients with PTSD were diagnosed with sleep apnea, compared to only 20 percent of the general population. When untreated, sleep apnea can worsen the symptoms of PTSD.

“Sleep apnea can be brought on by the PTSD that far too many military men and women face after serving in combat,” Rep. Graves continued. “With this resolution, I hope we can find solutions to this very real problem and begin providing our veterans with the resources needed to curb the effects of PTSD. Our soldiers bravely sacrifice so much to protect our freedoms, the least we can do is give them everything they need to lead healthy, successful lives once they come home.”

Graves’ resolution supports public awareness of sleep apnea, seeks to provide access to care for soldiers and veterans suffering from the condition, and further explores CPAP as a viable treatment for PTSD.

The resolution is a reintroduction of similar text offered by Representative Graves in 2016.

Hannibal Courier Post – Posted Jan 16, 2017 at 1:45 PM Sam Graves