Snoring is more than a social nuisance, it is the first indication of a far more dangerous disorder: Sleep Apnea. Snoring, although usually associated with someone who has sleep apnea, is not necessary for someone to have in order for them to stop breathing. The opposite however is not true; if someone is snoring they most likely have a sleep related breathing disorder or will develop one in the near future. Sleep apnea is characterized by stoppages in breathing during sleep, which are accompanied by loud, habitual snoring. Nighttime sleep is disrupted by this cessation in breathing that can last for 10 seconds or longer, often leaving the individual sleepy during the daytime. Sleep apnea can be mild or severe, depending on the length and frequency of stoppages in breathing while asleep. If left untreated, sleep apnea leads to impaired daytime functioning, high blood pressure, heart failure, and possibly stroke. For more information about sleep apnea, visit the American Academy of Sleep Medicine(AASM), formally the ASDA. This link will take you to another website, click the arrow back on your browser to return to our website.

This disorder is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness with a tendency to sleep at inappropriate times, despite getting 7-9 hours of quality nighttime sleep. Some people have been known to fall asleep while in the middle of a conversation, driving, or in a business meeting. Narcolepsy affects the region of the central nervous system that regulates sleep and wakefulness, though severity of sleepiness varies in each individual. Often, but not always accompanied by a sudden muscle weakness called cataplexy, additional symptoms include paralysis and hallucinations when sleepy. Although a cure for narcolepsy has not been found, most people can lead normal lives if the condition is properly diagnosed and treated. For more information on narcolepsy, visit the National Sleep Foundation. This link will take you to another website, click the arrow back on your browser to return to our website.

Most individuals, at some time in their lives will experience temporary problems with insomnia. However, more than 49 percent of the population suffers from long term or chronic insomnia, a disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep and/or staying asleep. Insomnia is usually a symptom of another sleep disorder, but can be triggered by psychological factors, lifestyle change, or physical illness. Only a qualified sleep disorder center can adequately rule out other medical disorders and get to the root of the problem enabling successful treatment. For more information on insomnia, visit the Sleepnet website. This link will take you to another website, click the arrow back on your browser to return to our website.

Periodic Limb Movement (PLM) disorder is characterized by periodic episodes of repetitive limb movements that occur during sleep. These limb movements can be disruptive to sleep which the sufferer may not be aware of. If limb movements are disruptive, the person may complain of insomnia, restless sleep or daytime sleepiness. Often the individual with PLM's does not realize it; a bed partner is usually more aware of their nighttime movements. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a movement disorder characterized by a "crawling" sensation in the legs prior to sleep. These sensations cause the victim to move the affected body part for relief, often keeping them awake at night. This can lead to severe insomnia and excessive sleepiness. For more information about periodic limb movements or restless legs syndrome, visit the Restless Legs Homepage. This link will take you to another website, click the arrow back on your browser to return to our website.

What should you know before you seek treatment at a sleep disorders center?

	Is the sleep center accredited? Currently, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), formally the ASDA is the only organization with experience, expertise, and programs in place to perform certifications.
	Is the sleep specialist board certified? The American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM) is the only organization in North America providing comprehensive examinations in clinical polysomnography and sleep disorders medicine.
	Is the sleep center striving to exceed minimum standards? Indicators of a comprehensive center may include: accreditation as a provider of continuing medical education (CME), ongoing clinical and basic research, training opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students, and educational opportunities for the public, patients and other professionals. Please visit our Community Outreach page to see what the Ohio Sleep Medicine Institute offers.

Be an informed healthcare consumer. You have the right to quality care in a facility that meets and exceeds certification standards.

How sleepy are you? Take our test and find out.

1. Do you snore?
2. Are you sleepy during the day?
3. Do you wake with a dry throat or headache?
4. Do you wake with heartburn or an acid taste in your mouth?
5. Do you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep?
6. Are you irritable or do you have difficulty concentrating?
7. Do you have high blood pressure or other heart problems?

If you answered "yes" to 2 or more of these questions, you could have a sleep disorder. Please consult your family physician about your symptoms. Your doctor may need to refer you to an American Board of Sleep Medicine, certified sleep medicine specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.