Sleep disorders keep millions of Americans awake at night. They're much more common - and can be more serious - than most people think. In fact:

• 35 million Americans have sleep disorders
• 200,000 sleep-related auto accidents occur each year
• 50,000 premature and preventable deaths occur annually as a result of sleep disorders
• 95% of individuals suffering with sleep disorder are undiagnosed

The good news is that most sleep disorders can be effectively treated. But, if left untreated, some sleep problems can result in serious health risks and dangerous medical conditions. Sleep disorders have been linked to:

• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Impotence
• Respiratory failure
• Strokes
• Fatal heart attacks

The Pioneer Valley Sleep Disorders Center offers comprehensive services for the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that interfere with sleep. The most common disorders include obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, narcolepsy, periodic limb movement disorder, restless legs syndrome, behaviorally-conditioned awakenings, sleepwalking, night terrors, bedwetting and insomnia.

Diagnosing Sleep Disorders
A thorough evaluation is the first step to an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for a sleep problem. Sleep testing is available in the sleep lab, but is not always necessary. Our lab provides an overnight study known as a polysomnogram or PSG.  The PSG is a painless test that continuously records a broad range of physiological factors, such as brain wave activity, eye movements, muscle activity, heart rate and rhythm, breathing depth and blood oxygen saturation.

Sleep Lab
For patients requiring an overnight sleep lab study, our program is located in a hotel-like setting with comfortable beds and private bathrooms. Following your sleep lab study, a continental breakfast is served in the morning to help you get up and get on with your day.

Treatment
If you do suffer from a sleep disorder there are solutions available, and our experienced staff is committed to helping you achieve a better night's sleep. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as weight loss or alcohol avoidance can help you rest better. For more serious cases, corrective surgery or further treatment by a sleep specialist may be necessary. Non-medicinal treatments include light therapy, hypnotherapy, relaxation exercises, herbal treatments, behavioral modifications and conditioning exercises. When required, our team will assist you with referrals to physicians specializing in neurology, psychiatry, and dental and oral surgery.
 
For more information about our sleep services, please call 801-964-3876.