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Trauma Associated Sleep Disorder
Henry is a gentle, easy-going grandfather to more than 18 adoring grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren. But after he falls asleep, Henry’s family members often fear his yelling and screaming and sometimes aggressive actions.In the morning, Henry remembers nothing. A veteran of the Korean War, he’s reluctant to seek help for what doctors now recognize as Trauma Associated Sleep Disorder. During the day, Henry shows no signs of PTSD. But after falling asleep, his mind returns to scenes of war.
Symptoms of Trauma Associated Sleep Disorder include
- vocalizations
- sleepwalking
- combative behavior that can injure others
- nightmares that include replaying of traumatic events
Diagnosis is important in order for sufferers to get help. according to the study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine
It’s pretty common for soldiers who have seen combat to have nightmares, but for those like the men in the study who experience more serious symptoms, many unfortunately don’t seek help. They may feel guilty and ashamed about what they do while asleep. And as a result, a lot of veterans only see doctors after their spouses make them, Mysliwiec says. That’s why Mysliwiec thinks this diagnosis is so important: Once you put a name on something, people can recognize it in themselves and others.
Once doctors can study the problem, sufferers can get help. See more at: http://www.texvet.com/blogs/pjefferies/new-study-proposes-sleep-tsd-instead-ptsd-may-trouble-some#sthash.CPS8QsRM.dpuf
