Baptist Health Sleep Clinic-Hot Spring County offers diagnosis and treatment for patients with problems such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, night seizures, and restless leg syndrome, among others. Clinic is Wednesdays with sleep studies on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.
Patients must be referred by a physician.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep. Sleep apnea seems to run in some families, suggesting a possible genetic basis.
There are two types of sleep apnea, central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea. Diagnosis of sleep apnea is not simple because there can be many different causes.
Treatment may involve behavioral changes, weight loss, CPAP therapy and sometimes surgery. Medications are generally not effective in the treatment of sleep apnea.
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a chronic, neurological sleep disorder with no known cause. The main characteristic of narcolepsy is excessive and overwhelming daytime sleepiness, even after adequate nighttime sleep.
In addition to a complete medical history and physical exam, there are several lab tests to confirm the diagnosis.
The goal of treatment of narcolepsy is to help you remain as alert as possible during the day and may include:
- Medicines
- Nap therapy
- Proper diet
- Regular exercise
- Behavioral therapy
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
Restless legs syndrome is a sleep disorder that causes unpleasant sensations in the legs and you have an irresistible urge to move the affected limb when the sensations occur. The cause of RLS is still unknown.
Your doctor can diagnose RLS based on your signs and symptoms, a complete medical history, and a physical exam. In addition, tests, such as lab tests or a sleep study, may be done.
Medicine and lifestyle changes can help relieve RSL symptoms.