The Association between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)is a type of sleep-related breathing disorders which is associated with frequent awakenings leading to sleep fragmentation.
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that is also associated with sleep fragmentation and disruption. A possible link between OSA and PTSD needs to be accurately identified in patients who present with either OSA or PTSD. This article will review the diagnostic criteria of OSA and
PTSD, the proposed link between these two distinct clinical entities and the treatment interventions for both disorders. The accurate identification and
appropriate treatment of OSA and PTSD would ultimately prevent sleep disruption and its serious medical and mental complications, leading to improved functioning in patients whose lives are adversely impacted by these disabling medical and mental disorders.