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Hospital Sleep Lab Marks 1st Birthday
ROME – As sleep specialists celebrate National Sleep Awareness Week March 27-April 2, Rome Memorial Hospital is preparing to mark the first anniversary of the opening of its sleep disorders center, located at 1617 N. James St.
Sixty-two percent of adults say they have problems sleeping, according to a 1999 poll by the National Sleep Foundation. Poor sleeps contributes to poor health and even an increase in accidents, and largely go undiagnosed and untreated, according to the Foundation’s study.
"Since opening in April 1999, we’ve seen a steady growth in patients at the Mohawk Valley Sleep Disorders Center of Rome Memorial Hospital," said Mark D. Snyderman, Assistant Vice President Corporate Development and Outpatient Services. "We’ve expanded the availability of the sleep studies, which are conducted overnight."
Dr. Steven A. Levine, medical director of the sleep disorders center, started screening patients Thursday, April 15. "Disorders of sleep are common and may result in diminished quality of life," said Dr. Steven A. Levine, medical director of the sleep disorders center. "They may also endanger public safety through their contribution to traffic and industrial accidents."
Common sleep disorders include obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder and insomnia. "Successful treatments exist, particularly in patients that suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome, a condition characterized by snoring and interruption of breathing in addition to daytime sleepiness," said Dr. Levine.
Following an initial visit and evaluation, a polysomnogram (sleep study) may be recommended. Although the test is typically performed overnight, it is considered an outpatient procedure. The study helps to pinpoint the cause of sleep problems and plan treatment. Sometimes a second study is performed to initiate and/or assess the effectiveness of therapy. Most insurance plans, including Medicare cover the cost of testing and treatment. Appointments can be made with a doctor’s referral.
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. A sleep technologist continuously observes monitoring equipment throughout the night from a separate room. 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.
Patients undergoing the study usually arrive at the center two to 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.
A tremendous amount of data is collected from the visit. Within a few days it is scored and then interpreted by Dr. Levine. A final report is then sent to the patient’s referring physician.
Dr. Levine has been practicing in the Central New York area for 10 years. He has a private pulmonary practice in New Hartford and is the medical director of the Mohawk Valley Sleep Disorders Center at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center. He is board certified in Sleep Medicine as well as in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine and Critical Care Medicine.
Here are some common indicators that suggest a possible sleep disorder:
"The problem is that most people suffering from various sleep disorders fail to get the problem diagnosed and the appropriate treatment," said Dr. Levine. "National Sleep Disorders Week helps people recognize the problem and encourages them to seek treatment."
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