Experiencing good sleep on a consistent basis is essential for a productive, healthy, and successful life. While many people are aware that they suffer from sleep deprivation, others may have no idea there’s an issue. Both sides, however, may experience similar symptoms such as exhaustion that won’t subside, excessive sleepiness during the day, poor concentration, irritability, high blood pressure, and even heart disease.
If you or a loved one is questioning whether sleep deprivation is causing a decline in quality of life, it may be time to schedule a sleep study at RMC. Our team of board-certified sleep disorder specialists are experienced in helping individuals find the core issue causing their sleep disruption, creating a plan to help you or a loved one return to restful sleep patterns.
Reasons for Sleep Studies
Each RMC sleep study is conducted in a home-like environment, where patients are monitored by a registered sleep technologist using the most advanced diagnostic equipment. Testing provides accurate diagnoses for the following:
Sleep Apnea
One of the most common issues discovered through a sleep study is a condition known as sleep apnea, a potentially serious issue where breathing stops and starts repeatedly due to overrelaxed throat muscles. Some individuals with this condition snore loudly and may continue to feel tired after a full night’s sleep.
An MPSG study is a painless diagnostic test for sleep apnea that sometimes requires a two-part study, where patients are introduced to sleeping while wearing a Constant Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine and mask. During the study, sleep center specialists find the optimal air pressure to individually treat the patient’s sleep apnea for improved airflow, comfort and sleep patterns.
Narcolepsy
People who experience overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep may have a narcolepsy. Patients being tested for this condition visit the RMC Sleep Center during the day for a Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT). During the test, individuals take a series of five naps spread two hours apart to properly diagnose the condition.
Working in an Industry Requiring High Alertness
Individuals working in industries that require them to stay actively alert for their job—such as truck drivers and safety workers—are sometimes asked to take the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT). Test results indicate how well a person can stay awake during the day. People with signs of sleep apnea or who are using a CPAP machine may also be asked to take this test.
Fittings for Sleep Equipment
If you are diagnosed with a mild case of obstructive sleep apnea, you may seek oral treatment options from a dentist. Mandibular advancements are custom made for each patient and attach together to adjust the lower jaw slightly forward to allow more airflow while asleep.
Learning Your Sleep Study Results
Once your sleep study results are available, your referring physician reviews them with you, as well as an appropriate course of treatment.
Improve Your Sleep with an RMC Sleep Study
All it takes to begin your path to a better night’s sleep is making an appointment with the RMC Sleep Center at The Tyler Center. To learn more about our sleep studies, contact us.