Sleep Disorder Laboratory
A Convenient Alternative For Physicians
Sleep is a basic necessity of life. It is as important to our health and well being as air, food and water. When we get a good night’s sleep, we are more alert, energetic, and generally feel better. When we don’t, our health, productivity and relationships can suffer.
If you are spending enough time in bed and still wake up feeling tired or very sleepy during the day, you may be one of the estimated 40 millions Americans with a sleep disorder.
Memorial Regional Hospital South’s Sleep Disorder Laboratory offers help for those suffering from serious sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, excessive snoring, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder.
Ideal Candidates
Sleep disorders affect one out of every four individuals. Left untreated, many serious conditions, such as sleep apnea, may have lifethreatening consequences due to the toll taken on the cardiovascular and neurological systems. Research indicates that approximately four percent of the population suffers from sleep apnea; the most prevalent of all sleep disorders.
Warning Signs
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Extremely loud snoring
- Repeating patterns of “snore, pause, gasp” revealing
- breathing stops and starts
- Frequent waking
- Extreme daytime sleepiness
- Falling asleep while at work or driving
- Workplace accidents or car crashes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Lost productivity
- Forgetfulness
- Irritability
- Anxiousness
- Depression
- Mood or behavior changes
- More frequent illnesses
- Morning headaches
- Loss of interest in sex
- Male erectile failure
What to Expect
Sleep studies are conducted in private, home-like sleep rooms, which afford patients all the comforts of home. Set-up involves the placement of various electrodes on the surface of the patient’s scalp, face, chest and lower leg to monitor brain waves, leg and eye movements, respiration, heart rate and muscle activity. There are no injections, drugs or X-rays associated with this procedure, and no pain associated with the placing or wearing of electrodes. A second night at the Sleep Disorder Laboratory may be required for patients diagnosed with sleep apnea.
Preparing For Your Sleep Study
The following preparations should be made just before your overnight stay:
- Shower and shampoo your hair
- Avoid using anything on your hair once it is clean (no hair spray, gels, etc.)
- Do not wear makeup or jewelry
- Do not use creams or lotions on your body or face
- Do not wear acrylic nails or hair braids/weaves that can affect sensor placement
- Pack your sleepwear and toiletries
- Bring your reading glasses, if applicable, for use in completing paperwork
- If you prefer, bring your favorite pillow and blanket — and any reading material or other items to help you pass the time before bedtime
- Consult your physician prior to the sleep study if you are taking over-the-counter or prescription drugs before bedtime
Treatments and Therapy
Treatments and therapies vary, depending on the type of sleep disorder diagnosed. Some include:
- Positive airway pressure devices that help keep the airway open during sleep
- Medications
- Laser or other surgery in nasal/airway region
- Lifestyle changes
- Weight loss and exercise
- Dental appliances
- Light therapy and internal body clock adjustments
Tips For Better Sleep
- Avoid napping during the daytime
- Eliminate distractions in the bedroom
- Sleep in dark, quiet, cool and comfortable room
- Use the bed for sleeping (no TV or eating)
- Follow a regular bedtime schedule and routine
- Exercise at least 3 hours before bedtime
- Watch what/when you eat
- Avoid large meals close to bedtime
- Avoid caffeine close to bedtime
- Avoid nicotine close to bedtime
- Properly manage stress
- Take a warm bath before bedtime
- Listen to quiet music before bedtime
- Try relaxation exercises before bedtime
Who to Contact
Those who suspect they may have a sleep disorder should bring it to the attention of their family physician or make an appointment for a consultation with one of the sleep specialists affiliated with Memorial Regional Hospital South by calling (954) 986-6124.
For a Memorial physician, call our Physician Referral Service toll-free at (800) 944-DOCS, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.