How PTSD Can Cause Sleep Apnea: Natural Ways to Heal
Understanding Sleep Apnea & PTSD
There are two types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). The type commonly linked with PTSD is OSA, which involves a mechanical obstruction in the airway, causing sleep disruptions. This blog focuses on the connection between PTSD and sleep apnea, specifically OSA.
Causes of Sleep Apnea
Obesity: Extra weight physically obstructs the airway.
Weak Airway Musculature: Insufficient muscle tone in the airway.
Low Arousal Threshold: Being a "light sleeper."
High Loop Gain: Instability in the breathing control system.
Sleep Apnea secondary to PTSD
Research shows that individuals with PTSD are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea. PTSD-related hyperarousal during sleep can lead to respiratory instability, also known as high Loop Gain, which exacerbates sleep apnea symptoms. Symptoms in these individuals often include insomnia, nightmares, leg jerks, and increased airway resistance.
Does PTSD cause Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea can disrupt REM sleep, crucial for emotional regulation and fear extinction. This disruption can trigger the fight-or-flight response, worsening PTSD symptoms. In some cases, sleep apnea may even contribute to the development of PTSD, creating a vicious cycle where each condition exacerbates the other.
Diagnosed with Sleep Apnea After Military Service
Veterans are particularly susceptible to sleep apnea due to combat-related stress and PTSD. Studies have shown high rates of OSA among veterans from different conflicts, including Vietnam and recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Co-occurring sleep disturbances such as periodic leg movement disorder, sleep terrors, and nocturnal anxiety attacks are common in this group.
Common Symptoms of PTSD & Sleep Apnea
Nightmares about choking or suffocating
Depression and anxiety
Daytime sleepiness, increasing risks like falling asleep while driving
Natural Treatments for Sleep Apnea & PTSD
While PAP therapy and surgical options exist, natural treatments like breath training are gaining attention. Breath training can improve the stability of the airway and enhance neuroplasticity, which can help manage both PTSD and sleep apnea.
Breath Training Techniques
Breathing Pattern and Diaphragm Training
Inspiratory Resistance Training
Voluntary Hypoventilation with Breath Holding
Playing Didgeridoo and Double Reed Wind Instruments
These methods have shown promise in reducing sleep apnea symptoms and improving overall respiratory health.
Conclusion
The connection between PTSD and sleep apnea is complex and bidirectional. Understanding this relationship is crucial for effective treatment. Veterans and others suffering from both conditions may benefit from exploring both medical and natural treatment options.
Ready for real transformation through coaching from someone who’s lived through PTSD and has now overcome? Contact Coach Dee today.
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About the Author: Coach Dee
Deborah Park, known as Coach Dee, is the owner of Drip Training LLC and an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Health Coach. With a background in architecture and kinesiology from the University of Virginia, she has extensive experience in personal training and athletic coaching in a clinical (physical therapy) setting. Coach Dee combines her scientific knowledge with years of hands-on experience and generational knowledge of food as medicine to create programs that empower clients to regain control over their bodies and minds.
Her journey into personal training was deeply influenced by her personal struggles, including recovering from a life-changing car accident that led to PTSD and pain from scoliosis. This experience gave her a unique understanding of the connection between mental health and physical well-being. Coach Dee is committed to helping clients develop resilience, build strength, and rediscover their confidence—no matter the challenges they face.
