Sleep Disorders

Sleep Disorders …

Many have them, few are treated

Seventy percent of adults say they have problems sleeping. This, according to a poll by the National Sleep Foundation, contributes to poor health and even an increase in accidents. However, the study reported that the vast majority of sleep disorders go undiagnosed and untreated.

This does not have to be the case for area residents, thanks to Rome Memorial Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Center.  A sleep study can help to pinpoint the cause of your sleep problem and provide the data needed to prescribe effective treatment.

In order to have a sleep study conducted, most commercial insurance companies require a consultation and recommendation from a physician in otolaryngology, neurology or pulmonology.

If your insurance does not require referral to a specialist or does not need prior approval, such as Medicare, your primary care physician can order a sleep study for you by calling our Central Scheduling office at 338-7338.        

About the Center ...

The first of its kind in Rome

A sleep test, known as a polysomnogram is typically performed overnight.  The study helps to pinpoint the cause of sleep problems and plan treatment. Sometimes a second study is performed to initiate and/or assess effectiveness of therapy.

The test monitors brain, heart, muscle and respiratory activity while the patient sleeps in a comfortable bedroom. Sensors transmitting information to the high tech monitoring equipment are attached to the patient’s head, chest, abdomen and legs.

Surprisingly, patients report that it is not difficult to  fall asleep, move freely about the room or use the private bathroom while wearing the sensors.  A  sleep technologist continuously observes data on the monitoring equipment throughout the night from a separate room.

A tremendous amount of data is collected from the visit. Within a few days it is scored and then interpreted by a credentialed sleep specialist. A final report is sent to the referring physician.

Do You Have a Sleep Disorder?

Some common indicators

There are a number of common and uncommon indicators that may suggest a sleep disorder. Subtle signs include falling asleep while reading or watching TV,  needing to repetitively use the snooze feature on your alarm clock in the morning or feeling the need for a nap in the middle of the day.

Snoring or interrupted breathing can indicate Obstructive Sleep Apnea. This sleep difficulty affects more than 10 million Americans.

If your legs ache prior to going to bed or upon awakening, or if your partner reports that you kick him or her during the night, you could be one of the estimated 12 million people who suffer from restless legs syndrome and/or periodic limb movement disorder.

For some people the sleep disorder is one of irresistibly falling asleep at inappropriate times. Collapsing or feeling weak while laughing or angry can indicate narcolepsy or “sleeping sickness.”

For each of these disorders, there are successful treatments.

Where we’re located

For your convenience

The Rome Memorial Hospital Sleep Disorders Center is located in the medical office building at 1617 N. James St., Rome in Suite 600.

It is just across the street from the hospital where other medical services are available if the need arises. Within the medical building itself, the hospital maintains a satellite lab collection station and a medical imaging facility with X-ray and ultrasound services.

The building offers ample parking and handicap accessibility.

Patients undergoing a sleep study at the Sleep Disorders Center usually arrive at the center two or three hours prior to their normal bedtime. They are encouraged to maintain normal sleep rituals. The room has a television set for those accustomed to watching TV before going to bed.

Most insurance plans cover the cost of testing and treatment.  Appointments can be made with a doctor’s referral. To schedule an appointment for a sleep study, please call Central Scheduling at (315) 338-7338.