Sleep Disorder Centers for Treatment & Sleep Studies

Getting enough quality sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your health. So even occasional sleep problems can damage your daily life. Fatigue and exhaustion can lead to:

• Daytime irritability
• Lack of concentration
• Lost productivity

More importantly, not treating a sleep disorder can lead to serious health problems. Our medical professionals at each of our locations focus on a compassionate approach to their evaluations, consultations and treatment options for a wide range of sleep disorders.

Types of Sleep Disorders

Researchers have identified 84 different sleep disorders that generally fall into one of the following categories. Our specialists at Brookwood Baptist Health can help treat you for:

• Insomnia – Insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, or waking earlier than desired. It affects about 33% of Americans to some degree.
• Sleep Apnea – Obstructive sleep apnea is a life-threatening condition and the most common sleep disorder. It’s characterized by a collapse of the airway walls, resulting in loud snoring and the inability to breath. People with sleep apnea often stop breathing during the night, sometimes for lengths of 20-30 seconds. An estimated 38,000 cardiovascular deaths occur each year due to sleep apnea.
• Narcolepsy – People with narcolepsy experience excessive daytime drowsiness. They often fall asleep at inappropriate times, regardless of the circumstance. This sleep disorder can manifest itself in mild or severe forms.
• Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and Periodic Limb Movement Syndrome (PLMS) – RLS and PLMS are different disorders, but they’re related. RLS occurs only when a person is awake. The disorder is a voluntary response to a perceived pain in the limbs. PLMS occurs most often when a person is asleep. Movements are unconscious.

Conditions We Treat

The following conditions can be effectively treated at Brookwood Baptist Health Sleep Centers:

• Insomnia (inability to sleep)
• Different sleep/wake patterns
• Daytime sleepiness
• Breathing disorders, such as snoring and sleep apnea (when breathing stops for a short time)
• Sleepwalking
• Bed wetting
• Teeth grinding
• Nightmares and night terrors
• Other abnormal nighttime behavior
• Narcolepsy (sudden daytime sleep attacks)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the technologists trained in sleep disorders?

YES. All staff members have been trained in accordance with the standards of the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists.

How long does the study last?

Typically, you’ll arrive at one of our Sleep Centers at 8:00 p.m. for registration. Once you are assigned a room for the evening, the sleep technician will apply the equipment needed for the study. The study is usually completed by 6:00 a.m. the following morning. If you typically work a night shift, you will be scheduled for a study during the day.

Can you get up during the study?

YES. Patients can get up for short periods of time as needed to take medication or for bathroom needs.

Will someone be watching me sleep?

YES. You will be monitored by a sleep technician located in the control room. An infrared video camera system monitors you in the dark to maintain a comfortable sleeping environment. In addition, a hands-free intercom system is available should you need to speak with the technician.

How will I be monitored?

Electrodes are placed on your head, face and body to monitor your heart rate, brain-wave activity and leg movement. Nasal airflow, breathing efforts and oxygen levels are also measured.

Will I have to take off work to have the study done?

Typically, no. You can bring a change of clothes and personal items to the sleep study. Each room is private and offers a private bath and shower for your convenience.

How do I schedule an appointment?

After a full evaluation by one of our boarded sleep physicians, your appointment for testing will be scheduled as needed.

Is the sleep study covered by my insurance?

Most insurance plans will pay for a sleep study. However, we suggest you consult with your insurance carrier to verify policy information before scheduling your study.