How the Advocate Christ Medical Center Sleep Disorders Center Can Help

Sleeping problems are a fact of modern life. It is estimated that one out of three Americans has trouble falling asleep, or is excessively sleepy during the day.

A good night’s sleep restores energy to the body and revitalizes the brain. Sleep disorders not only affect your physical and emotional health, but also your appetite, social relationships, sexual behaviors and work performance.

Although sleep disorders affect millions of people, most don’t recognize the symptoms. Even fewer realize that, once detected, most sleep disorders can be corrected. That is where the Advocate Christ Medical Center Sleep Disorders Center can help.

Initial Consultation
When you call the sleep disorders center for an appointment, we will first send you a questionnaire which provides us with a sleep and medical history, and ask you to maintain a sleep diary for several days. On your first visit, the physician will review this information with you and conduct a physical assessment.

Sleep Testing
If the physician determines that a sleep study is required, you will spend one or two nights in a private, comfortable patient room which simulates the home setting. A nearby room is equipped with sophisticated equipment for monitoring sleep patterns, heart activity, blood oxygen levels and body movements. You may also be asked to stay during the day so that we may assess daytime sleepiness.

Treatment
If a sleep disorder is diagnosed, it can usually be treated effectively. The team of specialists at the sleep disorders center will evaluate the results of your studies and will make recommendations for treatment. Treatment may include medication, changes in daily habits or work schedules, or a simple nasal mask to relieve snoring and upper-airway obstruction. You may be asked to schedule a follow-up visit to check your progress, but your family’s primary care physician will manage long-term treatment of your sleep disorder.

Insurance Coverage
In many instances, the services of the Sleep Disorders Center are covered by insurance. You should always consult your insurance company to determine proper coverage before you begin treatment.

For more information about how the Advocate Christ Medical Center Sleep Disorders Center can help you get a better night’s sleep, call 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622).