The Effect of Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) on Nightmares in Patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

摘要

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is increasingly prevalent among Veterans characterized by recurrent nightmare and disrupted sleep. Veterans with PTSD also have a high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and untreated OSA worsens the sleep-related symptoms of PTSD. In our study, we hypothesized that among PTSD-afflicted Veterans with OSA, CPAP therapy may reduce the frequency of nightmares and a better CPAP compliance may be associated with increased symptom improvement.