How the Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital Sleep 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 Good Samaritan Hospital Sleep Center can help.

Scheduling Your Sleep Study
Once you have seen your personal physician and a physician's order has been completed for a sleep study, call the Sleep Center to schedule your test. You will be preregistered and a sleep questionnaire will be sent to your home for you to complete and return at the time of your visit. You may also be asked to keep a sleep diary for several days.

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
When 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. In some cases, treatment may start the same night of your visit. Treatment may include medication, changes in daily habits or work schedules, or a simple nasal mask to relieve snoring and upper-airway obstruction. You will be asked to schedule a follow-up visit to your referring physician at least 2 weeks after your sleep study and then you may be asked to schedule an appointment with a sleep specialist.

Insurance Coverage
In many instances, the services of the Sleep 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 Good Samaritan Hospital Sleep Center can help you get a better night’s sleep, call 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622).