Sleep Services
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Several types of sleep apnea exist, but most common is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when your throat muscles intermittently relax and block your airway during sleep. Evaluation and treatment of sleep disorders, such as obstructive and central sleep apnea are performed, as well as disorders such as Pickwickian Syndrome, Insomnia, Restless Leg Syndrome, Narcolespy, Circadian Rhythm Disorders (shift work & jet lag), Parasomnias, Bruxism, and the sleep manifestation of psychiatric disorders are also evaluated. Differences between these diagnoses can be subtle but treatment will vary based on the diagnosis. In addition to a comprehensive sleep history and physical examination, diagnostic testing is tailored to the needs of the patient and their specific sleep condition or problem.
Signs and Symptoms of Undiagnosed OSA can be:
- Snoring
- Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS)
- Gasping or choking while sleeping
- Witnessed apneas while sleeping
- History of hypertension
- History of refractory depression
- Frequent urination during nighttime
- Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib)
Diagnosing Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
In order to diagnose OSA or other sleep disorders, a patient must undergo a polysomnography (sleep study). This is typically done in a sleep lab, requiring the patient to spend the night in a sleep clinic, However, today this test can be performed at home and is called home sleep study and or home sleep test (HST).
In-Lab Sleep Testing (PSG)
A sleep test that is performed in a sleep lab (a polysomnogram or PSG) will measure the above, but will additionally measure brain waves, sleep time, EKG and leg movements. In addition, there will be a licensed sleep technologist who will observe your sleep and make necessary adjustments in the monitoring set-up.
With some sleep disorders an in-lab sleep test is preferred or essential.
Home Sleep Testing (HST)
A home sleep test is performed in your home versus at a sleep lab. Our portable monitoring devices measure oxygen level, heart rate, air flow and breathing effort. Some insurance companies require that, if possible, any sleep testing is to be done with a home sleep test rather than a lab. A home sleep study is designed to be convenient for the patient. It is a self-administered test that allows a patient to have a diagnostic study for sleep apnea in the comfort of his or her own home.
Based on your home study results a follow up in-lab test may be required.
Advise to Sleep Patients
- Follow good sleep habits : Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep with same cycle if feasible & try to improve quality of your sleep.
- Follow up with your primary case physician & he/she will guide you in the right direction.