Getting a good night's sleep should be the most natural thing in the world. Normal sleep helps to restore our physical and mental energy. However, nearly a quarter of the population in the U.S. and as many as half of all individuals over the age of 65 suffer from sleep disorders to some degree.

The Sleep Disorders Center offers comprehensive sleep evaluations with state-of-the-art equipment, a specially trained staff and personalized attention in a quiet, home-like atmosphere. For more information, call the Sleep Disorders Center at (703) 369-8268.

The Sleep Disorders Center Treats:

Sleep Apnea People with sleep apnea syndrome may stop breathing many times during sleep. These episodes often last from 10 to 90 seconds and may occur several hundred times a night.

Narcolepsy Attacks of an irresistible desire to fall asleep are the result of narcolepsy. Patients with significant or severe sleep apnea may have symptoms compatible with this disorder.

Insomnia The inability to fall asleep or stay asleep is a result of insomnia, which may be caused by heartburn, poor sleep habits, alcohol, medications, stress or sleep apnea.

Nocturnal Myoclonus Jerking leg movements during sleep are often recorded at the end of apenic spells but may represent an independent clinical problem. Periodic nocturnal myoclonus is a disorder that causes frequent leg jerks or movements during sleep.

Your Comprehensive Sleep Evaluation

During sleep, the body functions differently than while awake. Disrupted sleep can disturb daytime activities and, sometimes, medical problems during sleep involve a risk to basic health.

A polysomnogram (sleep study) is a procedure designed to evaluate your physical state during sleep periods. The length and quality of your sleep are measured and analyzed.

Measurements taken while you sleep include:

brain waves
heart rate
eye, chin and leg movement
breathing, breathing effort and movement
blood oxygen levels

Electrodes and sensors are applied in a way that allows you to turn and move during sleep. A washable adhesive is used to attach the devices to your skin. Generally, you will not be aware that you are wearing the devices after they have been on for a short time.

Sleep onset and awakenings are recorded, and patients are routinely videotaped to correlate body positions and movements.

The following are two tests your physician may order in addition to your initial polysomnogram. The tests are sometimes performed while you are here for your initial study.

Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) An MSLT is designed to measure the severity of daytime sleepiness. This test consists of a series of two to five 20-minute naps given every two hours throughout the day. The same kind of information is measured as a polysomnogram.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) If the initial polysomnogram documents significant breathing disorder, CPAP is sometimes used to treat the disorder. CPAP is a method of delivering the necessary air pressure, through a nasal mask, to maintain an open airway during sleep.

What to Expect During Your Sleep Study

The night of your study, bring to the Sleep Disorders Center your nightclothes, toiletries, medication and any personal belongings (pillow, blanket, etc.) that may help you sleep more comfortably. Your nightclothes should be loose and preferably two-piece as there will be electrodes attached to your calves and chest. Please do not wear satin, nylon or silk. The room is equipped with a television and you may bring books or magazines with you.

The technologist will review the sleep study procedure and go over the paperwork. You will change into your nightclothes and get ready for bed. The technologist will attach the electrodes and sensors and help you get settled into bed. You will have contact with the technologist at all times by an intercom system. At any time during the night, feel free to request a drink of water, an extra blanket or a visit to the restroom.

You will be awakened around 5:00 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. to change out of your nightclothes and be discharged unless you are staying for an MSLT. If you are staying for an MSLT, breakfast and lunch will be provided. Shower facilities are available.

What to Expect During Your Sleep Study

After your physician refers you for a sleep study, you may contact the Sleep Disorders Center at (703) 369-8268 to schedule an appointment. Because most people sleep at night, the study will take place at night, with the exception of an MSLT. If you work at night and sleep during the day, your study will be scheduled during the day.