It is estimated that some 40 million Americans suffer from chronic, long-term sleep disorders. Additionally, 20 to 30 million Americans suffer from some sleep disorder on an intermittent basis.
A sleep disorder is a disturbance of sleep and wakefulness caused by abnormalities that occur during sleep or by abnormalities of specific sleep mechanisms. Poor sleep can lower your quality of life and lead to serious repercussions for your health. Not getting adequate sleep leads to a higher risk of heart problems, diabetes, poor concentration, obesity, depression, and complications with your Immune and nervous systems.
The long-term health consequences of untreated sleep disorders may be severe and even life-threatening. Sleep disorders may be the primary cause for other illnesses such as cardiac disease, stroke, depression, and sexual dysfunction. Sleep disorders have been documented to be directly linked to heart attacks, irregular heart rate, and irregular heart rhythms.
Accurate diagnosis requires clinical evaluation, and sleep specialists are trained to identify and treat sleep disorders. In some cases, a sleep study, known as a polysomnogram, may be needed to further evaluate and diagnose the problem.
Major Sleep Disorders Include:
- Sleep apnea and snoring
- Insomnia
- Narcolepsy
- Parasomnias
- Restless Leg Syndrome
- Jet Lag
- Shift work sleep disorder
The National Sleep Foundation’s recommendations for sleep-duration numbers were developed after an extensive review of past scientific literature and input from a variety medical professionals. Such as ages ranging from:
- 14 to 17 years if age need 8 to 10 hours of sleep
- 18 to 25 years of age need 7 to 9 hours of sleep
- 26 to 64 years of age need 7 to 9 hours of sleep
- 65 to older need 7 to 8 hours of sleep
Sleep Deprivation
- The most common cause of sleepiness is sleep deprivation. This is a very common problem we encounter in our 25-hour society and is especially prevalent in young adults. Sleep loss in one of the major causes of work and motor vehicle accidents and increases the risk of death from those accidents.
- Sleep Deprivation causes the brain to become exhausted. It diminishes our short term and long term memory. It impairs judgment and increases the chance of making mistakes. Sleep loss limits our learning ability and decreases creativity.
- Falls are a common and costly problem in elderly people, whether in the community or a long-term care facility. Insomnia can increase the risk of falling.
- Sleep deprivation decreases the immune response and increases the risk of infections and other illnesses.
- Sleep deprivation also increases cortisol levels, lowers the satiety hormone leptin, and increases ghrelin which is an appetite stimulant. The results in increased appetite and weight gain. Sleep deprivation also decreases insulin sensitivity and increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
- Sleep is a time of rest for the entire body. Even the heart, which works day and night, naturally slows during sleep. That’s why inadequate sleep quantity or quality can lead to increased risk of high blood pressure. Heart disease and stroke.
Take our Sleep Quiz, and then talk to your doctor about ordering at sleep study at Magnolia Regional Medical Center.
Why Choose MRMC Sleep Clinic
Accreditation is important
Our Center has been accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care since June 2015. Accreditation involves a review of the quality of care, staff and physician training, the facility and patient safety measures. Accreditation is a prestige that only the best quality centers achieve. Most insurance companies require accreditation, and the accreditation process of the Accreditation Commission for Health Care remains the most comprehensive and stringent.
Experienced Sleep Medicine Specialist
Dr. David Davila of Little Rock, AR. is board certified in sleep medicine, has done his fellow-ship in pulmonary diseases, as well his residency in internal medicine.
Professional and Supportive Staff
The sleep technologist at the MRMC Sleep Clinic represent some of the best sleep technologists and have undergone rigorous training at the clinic, as well as at local and national conferences.
Respect the Patient. We make every effort to meet the needs of the schedule when making appointments, and we are dedicated to short wait times once you arrive. Our professionals plan their schedule to ensure there is plenty of time to discuss your needs and answer all your questions about your sleep management.
State-of-the-Art Diagnostic Therapeutic Technology
The MRMC Sleep Clinic believes that our patients deserve the best diagnostic equipment. Our diagnostic equipment meets and exceeds the newest stringent requirements of the Accreditation Commission for Health Care. This allows us to identify and treat disorders in a more precise fashion. Implementing the newest therapeutic modalities when available is an on- going priority.
Professional and Comfortable Setting
The MRMC Sleep Clinic provides two large bedrooms linked to a central control station for monitoring. Every room has intercom communication with the technologist. We have a low-illumination infrared video camera to discretely monitor patient’s activities. The technologist is fully aware of what is happening to the patient and is immediately able to intervene or provide assistance when indicated. Our rooms also have your very own personal bathroom and shower if needed.
Prompt Reporting and Treatment
The prompt completion of testing, initiation of treatment and compliance are the essential cornerstones of successful sleep management. The MRMC Sleep Clinic provides diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and analyzed reports within seven days in most instances. Patients with severe conditions may even receive the treatment plan the same day as testing if orders and insurance authorization are received.
Intense Patient Education, Training and Follow-up
The diagnosis and the treatment of sleep disorders require intensive patient as well as family education. Your DME (Durable Medical Equipment) company (where you will get your CPAP/BiPAP from) will provide our patients with prompt resolution of problems and improved compliance.
Making an Appointment
Your physician’s office will have to call and make an appointment through our Central Scheduling Department. They will gather all information concerning your sleep concerns and schedule the right type of appointment for you. We will mail you a “Packet” with information about your appointment, and a history questionnaire.
Please make sure that you read all the information correctly. Complete and bring any forms enclosed back with you the night of your sleep study, and bring your photo ID and your insurance cards. Please arrive a few minutes early to complete the registration process. Any co-pays are due at the time of the visit unless you have made other arrangements with our billing department.
Your time is valuable, and we make every effort to keep times in the waiting room to a minimum. Unfortunately, on occasion, we get backed up, and we appreciate your patients as we are always trying to ensure all of our patients are well attended. If you need to change or cancel your appointment, please call Central Scheduling in advance so that we may fill that spot.