Trouble sleeping can be very frustrating because of how it makes a person feel. While there is a lot of help available for these issues, many people ignore the problem and do nothing about it. Since a sleep disorder is not considered a big problem, checking into a center for sleep disorders doesn’t even cross the sufferers mind. Instead a person suffering from sleep problems goes to the store and relies on a sleeping aid. For small sleeping issues a sleeping aid can be all that is needed. However, it can result in very negative results when a serious sleeping condition is present. The reason why disorders are so misunderstood and overlooked is because the effects cannot be visually seen or repaired. A center for sleep disorders deals with these unseen dangers regularly and knows what to look for. They can be more helpful than a regular doctor when it comes to diagnosis and treatment.
The Negative Affects of Sleep Apnea
The symptoms of sleep apnea are not very obvious and a person with this particular disorder can go a long time without ever knowing they have a problem. Daytime tiredness and irritability are often the only symptoms seen and can be attributed to many other sources. Snoring and other symptoms that occur while asleep are not as easily identified unless another party observes them. Apnea is not a condition that will go away on its own. It can weaken your immune system and make you more vulnerable to illnesses and harmful diseases. Increased fatigue will put you at risk for driving and job related accidents. Your home life can be affected. Serious health problem such as high blood pressure and heart complications are likely. Over time, nightly sleep loss resulting from this condition can lead to mental health issues. The problems are abundant and can all be prevented if apnea is detected. Sleep apnea symptoms can be reduced with the right treatment.
What You Can Expect At a Sleep Apnea Clinic
A sleep apnea clinic or center offers testing and treatment plans for individuals who may have apnea. Sleep studies are performed to determine what is causing the condition. Medicine can be prescribed for certain sleep problems. Apnea often requires surgery, a mouth device, or a machine for treatment. A questionnaire is given during the first visit and is used to get a general idea of the problem. You will be evaluated by a well qualified team that consists of physicians, psychologists, and surgeons. A pediatrician may be included on the team for children being diagnosed. Patients are given an initial interview along with psychological testing. If a diagnosis cannot be made from this information, you will have to stay overnight or for a few days for further testing. A sleep apnea clinic will record sleep patterns and occurrences to obtain a more precise diagnosis. Treatment are presented by a specialist and then started as soon as possible for the most efficient results. Participating in testing can result in a much faster diagnosis and the best treatment.