Q: What should I do if I think I need a sleep study?

A: If you think you may need to have a sleep study performed, talk with your doctor first and request a referral. Sleep studies may be ordered only by doctor. It's also important to follow your insurance company's guidelines for seeing a specialist. Most companies require a referral order from a primary care physician before they will authorize a visit to a sleep-disorder specialist.

Q: What happens if the sleep specialist agrees?

A: During your visit with the specialist, the doctor will talk with you about your sleep complaint and decide if you need a sleep study. Sleep studies are not always indicated, but if the physician believes one is warranted, he or she will order a study.

Q. What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

A. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a condition in which a patients breathing passage seals during sleep, causing the patient to stop breathing. Apnea is Greek for “without breath”. The body responds to this lack of oxygen by arousing, or waking from sleep. This cycle leads to the patient being unable to get the needed quantity of restful sleep and results in: (1) constant fatigue, (2) diffifulty focusing, (3) irritability.

Untreated Sleep Apnea is potentially fatal and frequently results in serious health problems: (1) heart attacks, (2) strokes, (3) high blood pressure, (4) diabetes.

Q. Will I experience any pain or discomfort during my sleep study?

A sleep study a pain-free procedure with little to no discomfort. You will be wired from head to calves with leads and electrodes that assist in monitoring your vital sleep signs. That can make sleep seem impossible; however, most patients fall asleep within five to ten minutes of “lights out.”

Q. What is CPAP therapy?

CPAP, which stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, provides a constant airflow which hold the airway open, allowing uninterrupted breathing. This eliminates the Sleep Apnea, allowing the patient to get restful sleep.

Q. Are prescriptions required for CPAP machine purchases?

Federal law requires that you have a valid prescription to provide the company providing the CPAP machine