Airline Pilot Central Forums - View Single Post - No Search Function?/Sleep Apnea

07-24-2011, 08:44 AM

#9

Conquistador

On Reserve

Joined APC: Feb 2009

Posts: 12

Quote:

Originally Posted by Conquistador

Has this changed at all? I know a couple of airline pilots that have symptoms of sleep apnea but refuse to get checked because of the associated problems with a restricted medical. Once you’re on CPAP, you can be better off than the average pilot as long as you use it. I saw an article today that stated, “Approximately 2.4 to 3.9 million licensed commercial drivers in the U.S. are expected to have OSA”. I’m sure there are a good percentage of pilots flying in the airlines with it now.

Since I posted this in 2009, I think I may have found other issues why pilots don't get diagnosed and/or inform the FAA. One is the cost with the tests if you don't have insurance or your insurance won't cover it. Has anyone else decided to avoid testing and why?

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