Sleep Disorder Center

Over 50 million Americans are affected by a sleep disorder that negatively impacts their life. Sleep disorders have been linked to poor performance in daily tasks as well as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, depression, heart attack and stroke.

The experts at Holy Family’s Center for Sleep Medicine can diagnose a complete range of sleep disorders so that patients and their families can enjoy a healthier sleep and a better quality of life. After all, a good night’s sleep is the best defense against illness and daily stress.

At Holy Family our expertise in sleep medicine has resulted in numerous distinctions:

First center in the country to prescribe patient use of the Adaptive Servo Positive Airway Pressure ventilator for home therapy
Second center in the United States to successfully convert a patient from Cheyne-Stokes respiration to normal breathing (Feb `06)
One of only six centers selected nationwide for a limited trial of the ResMed adaptive servo ventilator

What is a sleep disorder?

A variety of conditions can interrupt your sleep, reducing both the quantity and quality. Those who have sleep disorders not only get less sleep, they do not experience the deep levels of “restorative” sleep necessary for ideal physical and mental health.

Diagnosed sleep disorders include obstructive sleep apnea, pulmonary breathing disorders in sleep, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, insomnia and parasomnia.

What causes sleep disorders?

Many factors can cause a sleep disorder. Some are environmental, such as stress, noise, light or night-shift work, while other reasons are medical such as excessive weight, depression, medications or genetics. Alcohol, caffeine and drugs can also play a role.

Dangers of sleep disorders.

Sleep is absolutely essential for normal nervous system function and to fight disease and sickness. A good night’s sleep is necessary for learning and for normal, healthy cell growth. Inadequate sleep impairs your ability to think, manage emotions and handle stress. It can cause physical exhaustion; automobile and work-related accidents; obesity; high blood pressure; heart disease; and harm intimate relationships.

We can help.

Holy Family’s Center for Sleep Medicine provides the latest technology to assist experts in diagnosing and treating a complete range of sleep disorders. We conduct comprehensive overnight sleep studies in comfortable, private rooms with televisions and Posturpedic mattresses. Evaluations are arranged around our patients’ schedules and results are analyzed and reviewed by a physician. With this information, our certified sleep specialists will work with you to assess your symptoms, determine the cause of your sleep disorder and develop a personalized treatment program.

Will insurance pay for a sleep study?

Most insurance plans pay for a sleep study. In some cases, a deductible or co-insurance is required. Some plans also require a physician referral for coverage. The Steward Health Care Centers for Sleep Medicine personnel can answer these questions. If you are not covered or will incur a significant expense we will call you directly to discuss your options.
For more information about insurance coverage, to schedule an appointment, or to speak with a certified sleep specialist, call us toll free at 1-866-698-SLEEP (7533).

Common sleep disorders

Sleep disorders are highly common medical conditions that affect millions of Americans each year. While some people experience mild sleeping problems, such as the occasional nightmare, others have severe disorders that, if left untreated, can seriously damage their health.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is caused by the throat collapsing frequently during sleep which prevents air from getting into the lungs. A person with this life-threatening condition snores very loudly and often chokes or gasps for breath through the night. This repeated disruption in sleep causes overtiredness during the day, an increase in the risk of hypertension, stroke and diabetes, as well as automobile and workplace accidents.Insomnia is the inability to fall or stay asleep. It may be caused by anything from caffeine or alcohol consumption to stress and emotional difficulties. Insomnia can lead to irritability, drowsiness and depression.Restless Leg Syndrome is often caused by specific types of iron deficiency, medications or a possible genetic link that causes you to have irresistible urges to move your legs at bedtime. It is often described as creepy crawly or tingling sensations.Parasomnias are behaviors that occur while you are sleeping. These range from night terrors in children to aggressive behavior in adults. Some parasomnias are provoked by other activities while sleeping, these can range from the brain waking up frequently to unknown night time seizures.Narcolepsy is associated with chronic daytime tiredness, unwanted sleeping periods/attacks, and sometimes loss of muscles control during period of emotions. Since year 2000 there have been many medical breakthroughs to treat narcolepsy. Narcolepsy usually first presents in teenage years, but can occur at any age.Pulmonary Disorders are common and can increase in severity during sleep. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) present many difficulties while we are sleeping, obstructive sleep apnea, under breathing and low oxygen levels. COPD and many other pulmonary issues are often evaluated and treated in a sleep center.

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