Going back to the September 11 attack, individuals that were probably suffering from untreated obstructive sleep apnea were most likely to develop Post Traumatic Syndrome Disorder (PTSD).

Previously documented obstructive sleep worsened in general. In those not previously symptomatic of obstructive sleep apnea, symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea newly occurred; particularly those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD.

Up to 70% of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder sufferers have obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. One of the cardinal symptom of PTSD is nightmare which is a sleep-related phenomenon.

Undergoing treatment for PTSD without addressing OSA is a non sense. Treating obstructive sleep apnea promotes better sleep, reduces nightmares frequency and emotional intensity, and reduces the symptom of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Dr Bonnie Henry, director of British Columbia’s Public Health confided that she developed PTSD following the 2003 SARS outbreak (many came up with it following social isolation, by being sick or by losing a loved one) and that the same symptoms reappeared with the upsurge of COVID-19. She was formerly director of Ontario Public Health when SARS emerged in 2003.

If you are experiencing nightmares, share your concerns with a loved one. If persisting nightmares deter you from going to bed or sleeping, bring this document to your doctor.

If you have reasons to believe that you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnea or that obstructive sleep apnea has worsen following COVID-19, we can help you.

Several avenues are to be considered with medication or without medication in addition to undergoing obstructive sleep apnea treatments.

You are not alone. Côté Santé can help you.
Our medical specialist in Respiratory Medicine, certified in Sleep Medicine benefits from a 10-year experience in treating sleep disorders related to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

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