Original Message

The above poster is 100% correct.  Your first priority is your health and sleep apnea can cause all sorts of health issues down the road that can jeopardize your medical.  Tiredness was not my symptom, but I was having a series of unrelated other issues that caused a Dr. to recommend the sleep study.  I am glad I did.  The sleep study lasted 3 visits (the VA may give you a do it at home kit) and after going on CPAP therapy, all my helath issues cleared up...not to mention I sleep more soundly.  I think the chances of something unusual coming out of the sleep study are slim and when you weigh this against the risks of not doing something, I would say go for it.  The FAA wants to make sure you get at least 6 hours of sleep per night on average.  The additional paperwork is a little hassle, but start your medical process early and it should not be an issue.  I have a 30% disability rating from the VA which does not include sleep apnea since the VA did not recognize sleep apnea when my sleep study was done.  Even a 10% rating added to whatever else you may have adds up over time.  In addition, if you have over 20-30%, it provides certain benefits in homeloans or Federal Job preference/protection.  If you are married, this will add even more to your disability...tax free