By Staff Reports
(DGIwire) — When we think of all of the issues that American veterans face, a lineup of the usual suspects jumps to mind, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, less visible—but just as detrimental—to their health is another condition that might not be among the first we commonly think of: namely, sleep disorders. But in fact, researchers have detected a strong correlation between these two conditions.
For example, a study performed by the Sleep Disorders Laboratory at the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center in Jackson, MS, and reported on the website of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, found that 70 to 90 percent of those suffering from PTSD also suffer from sleep disturbances. For example, PTSD sufferers have much higher prevalence of insomnia, nightmares, restless sleep and also sleep-related breathing disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea when compared to healthy cohorts.
The study further suggested that specific sleep treatments in the veteran population could lead to significant improvement in sleep and global PTSD symptoms.
Those who were in the military and think they may be affected by PTSD should consider speaking to their doctor about the latest clinical research study involving an investigational new drug as a treatment for PTSD, the AtEase Study. To protect the subjects’ identities and confidential medical information, the study organizers have obtained a Certificate of Confidentiality from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services to ensure their identities are shielded from all persons not connected with this clinical research project.
To see if they pre-qualify to participate in this research study, they can access the study website, AtEaseStudy.com, and learn more about it. The AtEase study is open to veterans or those currently serving in law enforcement, the Armed Forces or as a military contractor. Those serving in the Department of Homeland Security, Secret Service and Border Patrol are also eligible for this research study.
Currently there are no satisfactory approved drug treatments for PTSD. The investigational new drug used in the AtEase study represents a new approach to treating the condition. While symptoms of PTSD may improve or worsen while taking part in this study, participation will provide information about the study drug, a new approach to treating PTSD that might benefit others with the condition in the future.