Sleep Disorders
Located within Samaritan Medical Center, the Sleep Disorders Center of Northern New York specializes in diagnosing and treating sleep-related disorders. Overnight sleep studies are offered seven nights a week, with staffing provided by Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (RPSGTs) whose combined experience totals more than 50 years. Our Medical Director is Board-certified sleep specialist Dr. David Rechlin.
It’s important to note that the unit is a Sleep Center and not a sleep lab like many other area facilities. The difference is simple but important. While a sleep center provides testing and treatment for all sleep disorders (there are currently more than 80 recognized types), a sleep lab offers testing and treatment for only breathing disorders such as sleep apnea.
The Sleep Center provides a cozy, quiet atmosphere with many of the comforts of home. Each private room is equipped with a queen-sized bed, television and other amenities.
What are the signs of a possible sleep disorder?
- Waking up during the night
- The inability to fall asleep night after night
- Falling asleep at work or during classes
- Waking up un-refreshed after 7-8 hours of sleep
- Loud and heavy snoring
- Kicking your partner during the night
- General moodiness, depression or irritability
If you are experiencing any of these warning signs, talk to your doctor and ask to be referred to the Sleep Disorders Center of Northern New York. Most sleep disorders can be treated effectively so you can be more alert and energetic throughout your day. .
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What is a sleep disorder? Close
According to the National Sleep Foundation, about 70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep problems. If you – or someone you love – experience excessive snoring, insomnia, extreme daytime sleepiness, or abnormal sleep movements, you could be one of them. Sleep disorders can not only rob you of energy but also have a serious impact on your health and quality of life.
Chronic lack of sleep can increase blood pressure, contribute to stress and weight gain, lower your sex drive and affect your judgment, leading to car accidents and poor work performance. It’s also tied to a number of chronic diseases, such as depression, diabetes, congestive heart failure and stroke.
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What are common sleep disorders? Close
Common sleep disorders include:
- Insomnia – not being able to fall asleep or stay asleep
- Irregular Sleeping Patterns – difficulty in finding an appropriate sleep/wake schedule
- Narcolepsy – a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary sleep attacks at inappropriate times, such as falling asleep at your desk or during a business meeting
- Restless Leg Syndrome – a neurological movement disorder characterized by an uncomfortable sensation in the legs that occurs most frequently late in the day or at night, especially when laying down
- Sleep Apnea – temporary interruptions of breathing, on and off all night; often accompanied by daytime sleepiness, high blood pressure, irritability, and heavy snoring
Sleep problems also include a variety of more common disorders such as recurring nightmares, sleepwalking, sleep-talking, bed-wetting, and teeth grinding.
Samaritan Medical Center
The Sleep Disorders Center of Northern New York
830 Washington Street
5th floor – Use Pratt Elevator (C)
Watertown, NY 13601
