Understanding Sleep Disorders: National Sleep Awareness Week
posted by Mandy Fine on Tuesday, March 4, 2025
The first week in March is National Sleep Awareness Week, a time to share about sleep disorders that affect millions of Americans, many of whom go undiagnosed. At Spencer Hospital, we are committed to sharing valuable insight into sleep disorders and the services available for diagnosis and treatment.
Common Signs of Sleep Disorders
Sleep is something that everyone needs, but many people don’t get enough of it – or at least not good quality sleep. While it’s easy to think of sleep disorders as something that only affects a small group of people, they’re far more common than most realize. Symptoms of a sleep disorder can include excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, waking up feeling unrested, difficulty concentrating, and even mood changes like irritability or depression. If a family member has ever mentioned that you snore loudly, stop breathing in your sleep, or gasp for air, those could be red flags for sleep apnea, one of the most common sleep disorders.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when a person’s airway becomes blocked repeatedly during sleep, causing them to stop breathing momentarily. These interruptions in breathing can lower oxygen levels and lead to disrupted sleep. If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and accidents caused by daytime drowsiness. It’s a serious condition, and recognizing the signs is the first step toward improving your health.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options at Spencer Hospital
At Spencer Hospital, individuals who suspect they have a sleep disorder can take advantage of both at-home and overnight sleep studies. We are board-certified through the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) and partner with leading specialists to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment options.
Our at-home sleep studies are conducted in partnership with Avera Sleep Lab in Sioux Falls. The Spencer Hospital Respiratory Department assists patients by scheduling appointments and providing instructions for home monitoring. Patients return the monitor the following day, and the recorded data is sent to Avera, where a board-certified pulmonary physician specializing in Sleep Medicine analyzes the results.
For overnight sleep studies, we collaborate with Somnitech professionals from Sioux Falls, who conduct in-hospital studies at Spencer Hospital. Somnitech also has a board-certified pulmonary physician in Sleep Medicine who reviews the study results.
Both types of sleep studies monitor heart rate, blood oxygen levels, breathing patterns, and detect snoring or apnea-related gasping episodes. Additionally, overnight sleep studies measure brain wave activity and eye movements to provide a more comprehensive assessment.
If a sleep disorder – such as obstructive sleep apnea – is diagnosed, treatment options may include CPAP or BiPAP therapy, dental appliances, lifestyle modifications, or, in some cases, surgery.
CPAP Therapy: A Common Treatment for Sleep Apnea
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is one of the most common treatments for obstructive sleep apnea. This machine delivers a steady stream of air through a mask worn during sleep, keeping the airway open and preventing breathing interruptions. It has been shown to improve sleep quality, daytime alertness, and overall health.
Other Sleep Disorders to Be Aware Of
Sleep apnea is not the only sleep disorder people should be aware of. Other common conditions include insomnia, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, and parasomnias like sleepwalking or night terrors. Some individuals experience hypersomnolence, which makes them feel excessively sleepy during the day, even after a full night’s sleep. These conditions can have a significant impact on daily life, so it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing symptoms.
What to Do if You Suspect You Have a Sleep Disorder
If you suspect you have a sleep disorder, the first step is to talk to your primary care provider. They can assess your symptoms and refer you for a sleep study if needed. Early intervention can make a big difference in managing these disorders and improving your quality of life.
Tips for Improving Sleep Quality
Individuals who are struggling with sleep should focus on ways they can improve their sleep quality. Some things that a person can do to have good sleep hygiene include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and heavy meals before bed, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and making your bedroom a comfortable sleep environment. If you or a loved one suspects a sleep disorder, it’s essential not to ignore the signs and to seek help as soon as possible.
Taking the Next Steps
Remember, sleep is crucial for your overall well-being. If you’re struggling with sleep, don’t wait – take the first step toward better rest today. To learn more about our services at Spencer Hospital, please visit our Sleep Medicine page or contact your primary care provider for any questions you may have. Evaluation is required, and criteria must be met to get a sleep study ordered.
- sleep