Sleep Centers
What are Sleep Disorder Centers?
When self-treatment for a sleep disorder is not successful, it is time to seek professional help at a sleep center. Sleep centers are medical facilities that are staffed with board certified sleep specialists who diagnose and treat sleep disorders. If you are considering visiting a sleep disorder center you should look for one that is accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), the only professional society that is dedicated exclusively to sleep medicine.
Sleep centers are staffed with experts in:
- Insomnia
- Hypersomnias
- Sleep disordered breathing, including sleep apnea
- Circadian rhythm sleep disorders
- Parasomnias
- Movement disorders
- Children's sleep disorders
Otolaryngolgists (ear, nose and throat doctors), psychologists and dentists may also be associated with sleep disorder centers.
What to Expect at Sleep Centers
At a sleep center you will meet with a physician in comfortable environment. They will evaluate your symptoms and review your past medical history. The doctor may decide that a sleep study is necessary for formal diagnosis and treatment.
If you do need a sleep study, you will make an appointment to go to a sleep lab where, while you are sleeping, they will monitor your:
- Heart rhythm
- Brain waves
- Muscle movement
- Airflow and breathing activity
Sleep labs usually look like hotel rooms and are kept at your desired temperature. Sleep studies are painless and once your study is complete, your sleep specialist will customize an appropriate treatment plan.
Disclaimer: These statements and products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult your physician regarding any sleeping disorders.
