Sleep Apnea Claims Experience With Minimal Service Treatment

[K_C]

Hi All,

I have a question for those of you rated or fighting for sleep apnea. Admittedly, I'm putting the cart before the horse a bit here because I am not currently diagnosed with sleep apnea. However, I am lined up to see a private pulmonary doctor and finally get a sleep study. I'm fairly certain I have some degree of sleep apnea based on my wife's observations, and my history of waking up with severe headaches, waking while I'm actually suffocating, and the worst part, constant sleepiness I've dealt with for almost fifteen years now.

In any case, I'm looking for any experiences, success/ongoing-battle stories with sleep apnea claims and service connection. Unfortunately, like almost all of my conditions that occurred while active duty, I didn't seek much of any medical attention for them, and I feel the nexus is going to be a big fight. Here's my in-a-nutshell in-service treatment

1. Aug-2004 (19 y/o): Saw doc at first duty station, complained of hard time establishing sleep pattern and uncontrolled passing out, daytime somnolence, and bad quality of sleep. His assessment was insomnia and he prescribed ambien. However, the caveat here is I related this to having a new baby, so it may only be seen as acute and directly related to the circumstance.
2. Oct-04: Reported taking sleeping pills on a routine dental exam history questionnaire. I don't believe this would even be considered as evidence, but it's there in my records.
3. Jan-2007: Saw doc for trouble sleeping and insomnia--but again related it to the circumstance of working nightshift. Doctor prescribed Rozerem for insomnia.

So, in 7 years of service I was seen twice for sleeping problems, both excused with circumstance, and never pursued as the chronic issue it was. After discharge, I was even worse about seeking treatment. My general feeling about western medicine is that it rarely has any answers to my problems, and therefore I tend to just "save myself the time" and treat myself with the collective wisdom of the Internet.

If/when I am diagnosed with sleep apnea, I will file a claim. I don't have anything to lose by filing. I'm wondering if there are any pitfalls or strategies to be aware of before I file. So, anyone have a similar in-service history with a claim experience? I welcome any experiences or advice. Thanks in advance.

Edited September 21, 2014 by whalenkcj

[georgiapapa]

K_C

You will also find pulmonary doctors and ENTs who specialize in sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. I currently use a pulmonary doctor whose practice is totally dedicated to sleep disorders. I was referred to my sleep disorder specialist by my cardiologist.

Good luck.

[K_C]

Gastone: Thanks. Have had no problems keeping my cool with them so far, and will keep it that way. I have used the patient advocacy office once already regarding my C&P, and it proved to be a good move.

georgiapapa: Looks like the sleep doctor I'm with is a pulmonologist. When I asked, she said she has been practicing sleep treatment for over fifteen years.

Thanks for the encouragement. I will keep pushing forward.

KC

[georgiapapa]

K_C,

Take care of yourself.