Common Sleep Disorders - Sleep Disorders That Can Affect a Driver's Ability and
Make Them Unsafe © 2010
Common Sleep Disorders - Sleep Disorders
That Can Affect a Driver's Ability and
Make Them Unsafe
Written by: Insomnia Advisor
Common Sleep Disorders
Truck driving is a grueling job that often entails long hours and requires the driver to be alert
and be able to react quickly. A driver can be on the road for days with such a just rest being at
a truck preclude or on the side of the road. Lack of sleep can be a hazard to the driver and
anyone else on the road. Common Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders make driving more dangerous and is able to be treated immediately. Many
companies are implementing programs that help detect and treat sleep disorders for the safety
of their drivers and to maintain good productivity. Sleep apnea is very common among truck
drivers. This disorder is caused by the airway between the nose and lungs partially closing or
collapsing during sleep. When sleeping, the muscles that control the airway become relaxed
allowing this to happen. Common Sleep Disorders
A partially closed airway may cause very loud snoring and a closed airway will prevent the
sufferer from breathing for an extended period of time. Symptoms include pauses in
breathing, loud snoring, choking or gasping while sleeping, concentration issues, mood
swings and irritability. This can be a very dangerous disorder and should be treated as soon as
it is detected. A regular physician can determine sleep apnea exists by looking at medical
history and performing an examination. Common Sleep Disorders
Insomnia is another disorder that can affect a truck driver and their performance. This
disorder occurs when someone cannot get proper sleep over an extended period of time. It
can be caused by fatigue, psychological, and physiological problems. Insomnia is more
common when a person is stressed, anxious, or depressed. Symptoms include difficulty
falling asleep, staying asleep, daytime fatigue, depression, an