Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours of sleep do I need?
The optimal amount of sleep per night is individual, though most persons will need between 7-8 hours. There are individuals whose sleep needs are less than that, and others whose needs are >8 hours. Children, and most adolescents need >8 hours, with the younger the child, the more sleep that is needed. If you find yourself needing to sleep in on weekends, or days off work or school, it may be that you are not getting enough sleep on other days.
How can I tell if I have a sleep disorder?
If you are getting the proper amount of sleep, but do not feel refreshed, or are sleepy during your waking times, a sleep disorder may be present.
Is snoring bad for you?
Mild snoring (can only be heard if right next to the person snoring) is generally not believed to be harmful. Loud snoring which is bothersome to a bed partner, or to others in the home, may be a sign that a disorder of breathing during sleep, such as obstructive sleep apnea, is present. If you snore, and are tired or sleepy during wake times, a sleep disorder may be present.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea refers to "stop breathing" events which occur during sleep, and which are typically not recognized by those having the events. Bed partners may be aware of periods during which their partner may "not be breathing." Central sleep apnea refers to brief periods in which no respiratory effort is made, which is then followed by return of respirations. Obstructive sleep apnea refers to periods during sleep in which the upper airway (throat area) collapses, partially, or completely, cutting off the flow of air into the lungs. During this time, loud snoring may stop, such that it appears the person is not breathing. In reality, increasing respiratory efforts are being made, until the apnea ends, and the airway opens. The apnea may last more than 30 seconds in some individuals.
What is insomnia?
Insomnia refers to a complaint of poor sleep, either due to difficulty falling asleep, or staying asleep. Though most people have an occasional night that they have difficulty with their sleep, this can become a frequent experience for some persons. Anxiety, or depression contributes to insomnia in many cases. Poor sleep habits, or practices can cause, or perpetuate insomnia.
Does it matter if I get less sleep than is recommended?
For optimal waking functioning, obtaining the proper amount of good quality sleep is important. Individuals who do not get enough sleep develop a "sleep debt" which can accumulate, leading to progressively poorer functioning.
I recently was evaluated for a sleep problem and a sleep study was recommended. Is this necessary?
Though not every sleep disorder requires a sleep study for diagnosis, sleep studies, or polysomnograms, are often the only way to make a diagnosis with certainty. More limited studies, such as overnight oximetry, or limited channel polysomnograms, may not be able to determine adequately whether a sleep disorder is present. However, in the proper clinical setting, and when combined with adequate clinical history, limited studies can be used to make accurate diagnoses.
What is the best treatment for obstructive sleep apnea?
Though the appropriate form of treatment in a given case must be individualized to the person being treated, it is generally agreed that for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most effective treatment. In children, removal of tonsillar, and adenoidal tissue is often the preferred mode of treatment.
My bedpartner snores loudly. Is this normal?
Snoring is common, with an estimated 60% of middle-aged males, and 40% of middle-aged females who snore. However, loud snoring that is bothersome to others may be a sign that a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea is present. Obstructive sleep apnea is common, affecting an estimated 20 million Americans.
I feel tired all the time. Do I have a sleep disorder?
Many people often use the terms tired, and sleepy interchangeably, and have trouble separating them. Tiredness generally refers to a run-down feeling, or lack of energy, which generally does not result in sleep, if given the opportunity. Sleepiness is often associated with feelings similar to tiredness, but results in sleep if an individual is given a chance to sleep. Taking a sleepiness questionnaire (i.e.. Epworth Sleepiness Scale) can help you determine if you are sleepy. If you are tired all the time, it may be worthwhile to be evaluated for a sleep disorder. |
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