Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders are highly prevalent in the fire service—up to 37–40% of firefighters screen positive for at least one condition. The most common include:
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Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): ~28%
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Insomnia: ~6%
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Shift Work Disorder: ~9%
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Restless Legs Syndrome
Risk Factors: Shift work, high stress/trauma exposure, obesity (can be both cause and effect), age, and cumulative fatigue.
Signs & Symptoms:
What is Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs when the airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. This leads to drops in oxygen levels and frequent awakenings—often without you realizing it.
Over time, untreated OSA can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic fatigue, and impaired performance
Signs & Symptoms
Persistent tiredness—even after sleep—loud snoring or gasping, trouble sleeping, excessive sleepiness on shift, morning headaches, and difficulty focusing or staying alert.
