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Sleep

What are Sleep Disorders?

The best sleep is a mix of REM and non-REM sleep that leaves us feeling rested and refreshed the next day. But for many people, that's not what happens.

Conditions that can affect our sleep patterns include:

  • Sleep Apnea
  • Insomnia
  • Restless Legs Syndrome
  • Periodic Limb Movement
  • Narcolepsy
  • Sleep Walking, Sleep Talking or Sleep Terrors

A lack of sleep is especially dangerous when driving. Studies have shown that if you’re awake after more than 20 hours it is equivalent to being intoxicated. Click here for warning signs in predicting when you're too exhausted to drive.

For more information about sleep conditions and for general sleep tips, visit our Health Library.

Do you need a sleep study?

If you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, you may have a sleep disorder:

  • Have been told that you stop breathing while asleep
  • Wake up gasping for air
  • Often snore loudly
  • Have difficulty falling asleep
  • Are overweight
  • Have high blood pressure
  • Wake up with headaches
  • Suffer from depression
  • Have trouble concentrating
  • Often feel tired
  • Fall asleep at inappropriate times, including while driving or at work
  • Take frequent naps
  • Walk in your sleep
  • Experience involuntary body movement while asleep

Benefits of Treatment

Many sleep disorders can be treated once they are accurately diagnosed. Treatment does the following:

  • Reduces your risk for:
    • Heart Disease
    • Stroke
    • High Blood Pressure
    • Arrythmia
    • Driving or work-related accidents
  • Increases deep, fulfilling sleep
  • Increases energy and feelings of rejuvenation
  • Increases your mental awareness
  • Decreases moodiness, irritability, and drowsiness

Treatment Facilities

Evaluation for sleep disorders is by physician referral. If you have concerns that you may have a sleep disorder, discuss these with your physician.

If you do not have a physician and suspect you have sleep apnea, you may contact the Sisters of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus Sleep Laboratory (Cheektowaga) directly at (716) 891-2782 or the Laboratory for Sleep Related Breathing Disorders at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo at (716) 828-2335.

As part of the self-referral procedure, you will be seen by a doctor, who will determine if sleep testing is recommended.