The Impact of Sleep Disorders on Health and Physical Condition, and Treatment Methods for Maritime Transport Workers

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By Dr. Hamada Eid Nawar Alantably

This study aims to identify the relationship between sleep and health for maritime transport workers, the forms and manifestations of sleep disorders, and their impact on various physiological and psychological aspects, including: the immune system, heart condition and blood pressure, body temperature, hormone secretion, the central nervous system and neurotransmitters, psychological state, nutrition, susceptibility to obesity and diabetes, electromagnetic waves and magnetic fields in the body, and the use of narcotics. It also explores natural treatments for sleep disorders.

The researcher used a descriptive analytical approach, which relies on collecting, classifying, and analyzing data to interpret it and reach significant conclusions that clarify the relationship between the study’s variables (sleep disorders – health and physical condition – treatment methods). This was done by referring to literature and the results of theoretical and field studies relevant to the subject.

Key Conclusions:

Sleep disorders are a primary factor in fatigue, which is one of the greatest obstacles in the maritime transport field. This leads to increased rates of personal injury, ship grounding, collisions, and declining health, as well as negative physiological effects on the workers.

Common sleep disorders affecting the efficiency of maritime transport workers, especially ship crews on long voyages, include insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, narcolepsy (occurring due to long periods of wakefulness), sleepwalking, and sleep paralysis.

Physiological impacts: Sleep disorders cause increased pulse rates, elevated body temperature due to irregular internal bodily functions, decreased vital capacity, and rapid susceptibility to exhaustion from any physical effort or work performed during ship shifts.

Physical impacts: Sleep disorders lead to decreased muscular strength, slower auditory and visual reaction times, and reduced physical endurance.

Psychological impacts: Sleep disorders negatively affect the mental state of workers, manifested in reduced self-confidence, lack of concentration, increased tension and excitability, and heightened anxiety and muscle tension.

Sleep disorders can be treated through natural means, in addition to good nutrition and regular physical activity, especially on long voyages away from port.

Recommendations: In light of the study’s conclusions, the researcher recommends conducting applied studies on the practical effects of sleep disorders on ship crew members. This would allow for more detailed findings regarding their impact on physical, physiological, psychological, and functional variables to better understand the actual effects and treatment methods, thereby upgrading the maritime work system.

Dr. Hamada Eid Nawar Alantably is a Lecturer in the Department of Sports Sciences and Physical Education.