A physician referral is required for a sleep study. If you suspect you have a sleep disorder, see your primary care physician. While insomnia is a very common sleep disorder, it does not require a sleep study for diagnosis.
Living with a sleep disorder can interfere with your performance at home, school or work and can even affect your relationships with family and friends.
What are some of the most common sleep disorders?
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – snoring and brief interruptions of breathing during sleep.
- Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) – creepy “crawling” feeling and an irresistible urge to move your legs when at rest.
- Narcolepsy – excessive daytime sleepiness and a tendency to fall asleep at inappropriate times.
- Insomnia – difficulty falling and/or staying asleep.
- Parasomnia – movement such as sleepwalking or problems with your internal clock caused by environmental conditions, such as shift work changes.
How are sleep disorders diagnosed?
Your physician will review your health history for symptoms and risk factors to determine if your health is at risk from common sleep disorders. You may also take the surveys such as the Epworth Sleepiness Test. Once your physician determines you need a sleep study, you will be scheduled for a home study (with a portable unit) or an overnight stay at the St. Joseph’s Center for Sleep Medicine. This decision is based upon your insurance and your physician’s preference.
