Adequate sleep is essential for optimal health and well-being. Regrettably, many individuals struggle to achieve the quality sleep needed to remain healthy. Several factors contribute to this widespread sleep deficiency. Many adults grapple with insomnia, sleep apnea, or other sleep disturbances. Meanwhile, others rest in sleeping positions that mess with posture.
Sleep problems can often be complex and not limited to just one area of healthcare. If you’re struggling with sleep, consider seeing a sleep specialist. But is it worth it? Keep reading to find out the benefits of hiring a sleep specialist and decide if you need one.
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What Do Sleep Specialists Do?
Sleep specialists are experts in diagnosing and treating various sleep disorders such as insomnia, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, and similar conditions. These specialists are typically neurologists, pulmonologists, or psychiatrists who have undergone additional training in sleep medicine to provide expert sleep treatments.
Here are the other health experts who could also fall under the profession of a sleep specialist.
1. Dentists
When people think of treating sleep problems, dentists aren’t the first healthcare professionals to come to mind. However, dentists can be extremely helpful in alleviating sleep-related breathing problems by offering custom-fitted mouthpieces.
These devices promote unobstructed airflow during sleep and effectively reduce snoring and obstructive sleep apnea by keeping the airway open. To get one of these oral devices, visit a sleep clinic.
2. Otolaryngologists (ENTs)
ENT doctors begin by focusing on improving breathing both day and night. Often, this can resolve sleep apnea without needing any special devices. The ENT will examine you and may request imaging tests to visualize your airways better. They will assess your nasal passages and sinuses to ensure no obstructions. Your tonsils, uvula, and soft palate will also be checked for potential blockage.
3. Pulmonologists
Pulmonologists specialize in respiratory matters and typically concentrate on sleep disorders linked to breathing problems. They frequently handle obstructive sleep apnea cases when the airway becomes blocked. Some pulmonologists have more comprehensive training to treat various sleep disorders.
4. Neurologists
Neurologists possess a deeper knowledge of the brain compared to other medical professionals. Since the brain governs the sleep process, numerous neurological factors can influence it. Neurologists can pinpoint the problem and devise effective treatment plans for sleep disorders believed to have neurological roots.
Do You Need To See One?
Consult a sleep specialist once sleep issues persist for over three months. Perhaps you’re experiencing excessive snoring, waking up frequently at night, or having difficulty staying awake at work. You might constantly feel tired or have trouble falling asleep at night.
These symptoms may indicate an underlying sleep problem. Maintaining a healthy sleep routine is crucial, as poor sleep can lead to mood swings, hormonal imbalances, and weight changes. Inadequate sleep is also linked to medical issues such as breathing disorders, depression, neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s, and heart complications.
Procedures Sleep Specialists Usually Do
Before diagnosing, a sleep specialist would perform the required diagnostic and screening tests. These tests help in identifying and determining the root causes of sleep problems, enabling a thorough evaluation of your sleep health.
1. Sleep test
An at-home sleep apnea test helps assess the quality of your breathing during sleep. While not as reliable as an in-clinic sleep study, it can still be used for diagnosing or tracking obstructive sleep apnea effectively.
2. Polysomnography
An at-home sleep apnea test helps assess the quality of your breathing during sleep. While not as reliable as an in-clinic sleep study, it can still be used for diagnosing or tracking obstructive sleep apnea effectively.
3. Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is a daily experiment that measures how quickly you nod off in tranquil conditions. The Epworth drowsiness Scale (ESS) is the standard by which daytime drowsiness is measured. This test also measures how quickly and often you enter the REM (rapid eye movement) sleep cycle.
Seeing a Sleep Specialists Could Eliminate All Sleep Problems
Sleep specialists excel at detecting and treating sleep disorders. It may be time to seek their expertise if you struggle with sleep, experience extreme daytime fatigue, or display other sleep-related symptoms.
A range of healthcare providers can help with sleep problems. The professional you select should depend on the nature of your symptoms. Further testing may be necessary to exclude other possible health issues.
