Sleep Lab

Wamego City Hospital announces the opening of a new Sleep Lab on Thu., June 9, 2005

With ten percent of the population afflicted with sleep trouble, the lab is a great service to bring to the Wamego area.

“Many people think they have to accept that they are sleepy all the time or they can’t sleep,” states Don Hedden, Sleep Lab Director. “However, there are many options available to help people get a good night’s rest. The first step is discussing symptoms with your doctor so they can determine if you are a sleep study candidate who might benefit from treatment options once a problem is diagnosed.”

People experiencing sleep disorders commonly complain of excessive sleepiness during the day time. Irritability, depression, and diminished concentration and work performance are often reported by sleep disorder sufferers.

Bed partners of sleep disorder sufferers frequently state that their partner’s snoring keeps them awake at night. Those afflicted might also wake up numerous times during the course of an evening gasping for breath. This contributes to poor sleep quality, leaving people feeling tired after a full night of sleep.

“My family refused to stay in the same hotel room with me on family trips due to my snoring,” states a recent sleep study patient. “I knew it was time to do something when my husband asked me to sleep in another room because my snoring was so loud.”

Beyond minor irritations to family and housemates, sleep disorders contribute to or may cause numerous health risks, including: § Death due to work related or motor vehicle accidents

§ Heart disease

§ Strokes

§ High blood pressure

§ Sexual dysfunction

§ Depression

§ Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder.

To aid in discussions between patients and physicians, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale asks a series of questions to help identify sleep concerns for further treatment. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is available online and can be accessed by login on to the hospital’s web page at www.wamegocityhospital.com or calling (785) 456-2295 to have a copy mailed directly to you.

Physician referrals are needed to schedule a sleep study. Medicare and most commercial insurance providers cover the cost of a physician-referred sleep study. To learn more about diagnosis and treatment options visit with your healthcare provider or call the Wamego City Hospital Sleep Lab at (785) 456-2295.

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