The Sleep Disorders Center of NGMC is fully accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and supported by nationally known, board-certified sleep specialists with more than 65 years of combined experience. Our technical staff is experienced, caring and equipped with the most advanced diagnostic and therapeutic equipment.
Sleep disorders can affect overall health, and some may be life threatening.
Some of the negative effects of sleep disorders include:
* Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
* Type 2 Diabetes
* Increased risk of serious heart problems
* Higher rate of illness
* Increased risk of automobile accidents
* Reduced job performance, which can lead to lost income
* Strained relationships
Children with sleep disorders may also have:
* Learning difficulties
* Slow growth
* Coping problems
* Hyperactivity
Fortunately, most sleep problems can be effectively managed. The Sleep Disorders Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment programs that can help patients lead healthier, longer and more productive lives.
Common Disorders:
Insomnia is a general term which describes the inability to initiate or maintain sleep, and is associated with daytime fatigue and sleepiness. More than 20 million Americans complain of having chronic insomnia, which typically lasts at least one month.
Treating insomnia requires the patient and the doctor to work as partners to explore the causes and effects of the problem. Insomnia can be the result of a medical or psychiatric problem.
Narcolepsy manifests itself through excessive daytime sleepiness, uncontrollable sleep attacks, and muscle weakness triggered by sudden emotional reactions such as laughter or fear. Some patients may experience vivid dream-like scenes or paralysis upon falling asleep or awakening. With education and medication, this condition can be significantly improved.
Restless Legs Syndrome produces discomfort, a restless sensation and an urgency to move the legs just before sleep onset. It may be described as an aching or creeping sensation. Once asleep, the patient may experience periodic leg twitches or jerks which interrupt sleep. This condition can be treated with medication.
Sleep Apnea is frequently associated with snoring and daytime sleepiness. Breathing may stop repeatedly during sleep. Patients suffering from sleep apnea may have high blood pressure, heart arrhythmia, diabetes and/or memory/concentration problems. In virtually all cases, this condition can be evaluated and treated with remarkable results.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic illness that affects 5-7% of the world population and is associated with serious medical complications if untreated. Sufferers of this disease experience stomach acid coming back up through their throat and into their mouth while lying flat on their bed. Most patients with GERD also experience nighttime heartburn, which is more bothersome.. Diagnostic Testing
Sleep studies are conducted based on physician or self-referral. Some of the studies performed are:
Narcolepsy Test (MSLT) - A Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is performed on patients who show symptoms of Narcolepsy during the diagnostic study.
The MSLT is a daytime study that is performed at our Gainesville location Monday - Friday. Patients arrive at 8:00 a.m. and take a series of five naps,which are spread two hours apart. Patients are encouraged to bring a book,homework,etc. to help entertain themselves during these breaks. The center does have televisions in each of the patient rooms. Lunch is included during the study.
Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT)
The Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) is used to indicate whether a person on CPAP can stay awake during the day. It is usually conducted on workers that have a job where alertness is required (for example: truck drivers,safety workers,etc.).
Sleep Apnea Test
(CPAP/Titration Study)
This test requires a second sleep study for the patient to be introduced to the Constant Positive Airway Pressure CPAP machine and mask. The goal of this study is to find the optimal air pressure to individually treat the patient's Sleep Apnea.
Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea (Mandibular Advancement)
Patients diagnosed with mild cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea can seek dentists who specialize in oral treatment options. Mandibular advancements are custom made for each patient and attach together to adjust the lower jaw slightly forward. This enables the patient's airway to allow more airflow while asleep.