Sleep Disorders
There are over 90 sleep disorders classified. The most common sleep disorders diagnosed are: Insomnia, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD), Narcolepsy, and assorted Parasomnia. The majority of these disorders can be successfully treated and our sleep specialists and staff are available to assist patients with therapy and compliance following positive outcomes if desired.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive Sleep Apnea is the most common sleep disorder we see, and is characterized by periods of breathing cessation during sleep lasting for 10 or more seconds. These pauses in breathing are caused by a collapse of the airway. Loud snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness are typical symptoms of the disorder. OSA is more common in individuals who are overweight and can potentially be a dangerous problem to the patient’s overall health. Research has shown that untreated OSA puts an individual at higher risk for Heart Disease, Stroke, Diabetes, Obesity, High Blood Pressure, and a lower quality of life.

The most successful treatment for OSA is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). This is a small machine that blows air into the airway through a small facial interface (mask), holding the airway open. There are also other treatment options available. Once you have been diagnosed with OSA, you can discuss your treatment options with your physician or our sleep specialists.

Insomnia
Insomnia is characterized by problems falling and/or staying asleep. This is the most common sleep problem reported, and is usually a symptom of something else.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Restless Legs Syndrome is an unpleasant feeling (tingling) in the legs that can only be alleviated with leg movements. This most often occurs close to bed-time and can cause insomnia. For some people, who suffer with RLS, their limb movements continue periodically after the onset of sleep.

Periodic Limb Movements in Sleep (PLMS)
Periodic Limb Movements can disturb sleep and cause daytime sleepiness, among other things.

Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is characterized by uncontrollable sleepiness and sometimes cataplexy (a sudden loss of muscle control in emotional situations). Other symptoms may be sleep paralysis, dream like hallucinations, and insomnia.

If you have questions about these or other sleep disorders, talk to your doctor, or call us at (615) 884-7950 if you are interested in scheduling an appointment with a sleep specialist.

Sleep Testing: What to expect . . .
Here at Hermitage Sleep Center, we want you to feel at home. Once you arrive for testing, you will be encouraged to follow your evening routine before beginning the testing process.

The technologist will explain the procedure before and during set-up. Electrode sites will be prepped with a mild cleanser. Small thin wires will then be attached, with tape, in several locations on your head and face. Two elastic bands will be placed around your mid section, two wires will be placed on your lower legs, and one wire will be placed on your finger. The leads are quite small, and rarely interfere with your sleep. To minimize disruption during the test, an infrared camera will be used to record your movements.

Sleep studies do not require needles, sleep aides, or pills. You may bring a pillow, but fresh pillows and linens are provided. Sleep studies are generally very relaxed, easy tests. Every effort will be made to assure you are comfortable and at ease with your surroundings.

Accommodations
We have gone to great lengths to ensure that our patients, referring physicians, and visitors have a comfortable and positive testing experience.

Each of our four bedrooms is designed to promote relaxation. All rooms include wireless internet service, a flat screen TV, private bathroom with shower, and queen-sized Tempur-Pedic® beds. Each room is also individually temperature controlled.

The morning after testing, a complimentary continental breakfast is provided along with an assortment of hot or cold beverages.

What is a Sleep Study?
There are several different types of sleep studies.

Diagnostic Polysomnogram (PSG)
This test is performed to determine if there is a sleep disorder present, such as obstructive sleep apnea or periodic limb movement disorder.

Polysomnogram with CPAP Titration
This test is performed once sleep apnea is diagnosed. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is applied and the pressure adjusted during the test. Once the optimal settings have been determined, the physician may order CPAP for home use.

Split-night Polysomnogram
This test is a combination of the two previous tests described. The diagnostic PSG is completed during the first few hours of the test and the CPAP titration is performed during the later portion of the test. Certain criteria must be met during the first few hours of your testing in order to perform this test.

(These tests are usually performed overnight, however we also offer them during daytime hours for those patients who normally sleep during the day.)

Multiple Sleep Latency Testing (MSLT)
This test consists of five nap periods two hours apart, starting about two hours after waking from an overnight PSG. This test is performed to determine the severity of daytime sleepiness and to help diagnose certain other sleep disorders.

Maintenance of Wakefulness Test
This test also consists of multiple nap periods and helps to determine severity of sleepiness. It is most commonly used to determine a person’s ability to stay awake while in a quiet, dark environment. (This test may be appropriate for individuals who work as truckers, pilots, etc.)

What’s Your “Snore Score”?
1.  Are you a loud, habitual snorer?
2.  Do you feel tired and groggy on awakening?
3.  Are you often sleepy during waking hours and/or can you fall asleep quickly?
4.  Are you overweight and/or do you have a large neck?
5.  Have you been observed to choke, gasp, or hold your breath during sleep?

If you or someone you know answers “yes” to any of the above questions, please discuss those symptoms with your physician or a board certified sleep specialist. You may also call Hermitage Sleep Center at (615) 884-7950, and we will be happy to assist you.

(© National Sleep Foundation 2006)