If you consistently have trouble getting a restful night’s sleep, or have an uncontrollable desire to sleep during the day, you may have a sleep disorder. Left untreated, sleep disorders may even endanger your physical and mental health. Mood, memory and the ability to concentrate may all suffer. In extreme cases, there can be life-threatening consequences. Narcolepsy, an inability to stay awake even during the day, is hazardous if you drive or operate machinery. Sleep apnea, repeated interruptions of breathing, can have harmful effects on your brain, heart and lungs.

The most common sleep disorders are narcolepsy (the inability to stay awake) and insomnia (difficulty initiating or maintaining a “normal” sleep cycle). But sleep apnea is of the most concern because of its potentially deadly effects. Sleep apnea is often described as the adult form of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and is potentially as lethal.

Kingman Regional Medical Center’s Sleep Disorders Center offers help to those who suffer from a variety of sleeping disorders. Specialists in neurology, pulmonary medicine, psychiatry and otorhinolaryngology (ear, nose & throat), are available for consultation. Staff who are board certified in sleep medicine read and interpret the studies. The Center is also equipped with the latest high-tech equipment. With KRMC’s excellent reputation for providing quality health care, you know you’ll be getting the best possible treatment, close to home.

Once referred to us, you’ll be scheduled for a consultation with our sleep disorders specialist. Depending on your symptoms, you may be asked to spend an evening being monitored in one of our private rooms. Every room is equipped with adjustable beds to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible. Our specially trained polysomnographer, using sophisticated equipment, will observe and monitor your breathing, heart activity, body movements, brain waves, and eye movement. The procedure is pain free, and in most cases results are conclusive after just one session.

If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, there are several ways to treat it. Sometimes, weight loss may remedy the situation. Another option is a surgical procedure known as an uvulopalatoplasty, which has proven to be 85 to 95% successful. This procedure involves removing excess tissue from the back of the mouth. When performed with a laser, the treatment can be done on an outpatient basis and with much less pain and loss of time from work.