Should you see a sleep specialist?

Few things feel better than a good night’s rest. Waking up feeling refreshed & revitalized is not only good for your physical health, but your mental health as well!

Unfortunately for millions of Americans, a full night of sleep feels unattainable. You may have accepted it as “Part of life”, but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s discuss why you should go to a sleep therapist, how they work towards a diagnosis, & how finally how sleep disorders are treated.

Why would I go to a sleep specialist?

The most common reason you should visit a sleep therapist is that you are not getting the quality or quantity of sleep that leaves you feeling rested. With over 88 sleep disorders, a sleep therapist can likely remedy whatever is causing the issue.

What will the sleep specialist do?

The therapist will ask you a series of questions to help determine if your symptoms qualify you for a diagnostic test. This specific test is called a polysomnogram. During this test, you sleep with around 25 electrodes attached to your body. Then a technician will watch your brainwaves, heart rate, eye movement, muscle tensing, leg twitching, airflow in and out of your mouth and nose, and chest wall movement. Many possible treatments won’t require the study. Behavioral therapies, such as talk therapy, and lifestyle changes are options. For example, let’s say you don’t sleep well because your partner sleeps with the TV on. The solution is to get rid of the TV, not give you medication to sleep through it.

How are sleep disorders treated?

Depending on your diagnosis, some medications treat common ailments such as insomnia, restless leg syndrome, & chronic nightmare disorder, etc. Treatments for other diseases like sleep apnea may include medical devices (CPAP found in Medical Supply Companies) and dental appliances that help you breathe at night. In extreme circumstances, surgery is used to help some disorders.

Now that you know there is help don’t settle for inadequate sleep! Contact a local sleep therapist today.

Source: http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/sleep-rx-specialist#2