In the stressful world that exists today, it can be very difficult to get a full night of restful sleep. It is estimated that between 50 and 70 million people in the United States suffer from ongoing sleep disorders. In fact, 1 in 3 adults report sleeping less than the recommended seven hours per night. Without proper sleep, an individual’s overall health may suffer.

Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is committed to diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, which plague many adults across the region. The Sleep Center at PMC is committed to diagnosing and treating sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome and REM sleep behavior disorder, among other things that deprive patients of much-needed sleep.

“So many people don’t realize the health benefits of getting enough sleep,” explained PMC Sleep Medicine Specialist David Carter, DO. “Sleep health contributes to all aspects of a person’s health, and getting proper, restful sleep can help improve overall health as well as many other related medical conditions.”

When patients realize lack of sleep is beginning to interfere with work or other daytime activities, it may be time to undergo a sleep study or polysomnography. The Sleep Center at PMC and its dedicated staff provide a wide range of sleep medicine services including overnight sleep studies and at-home sleep studies.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Disorders

  • Difficulty falling asleep or taking more than 30 minutes to fall asleep regularly.
  • Trouble staying asleep through the night or frequently waking up in the middle of the night unable to fall back asleep.
  • Snoring, gasping or choking during sleep.
  • Feeling the need to move when relaxing, movement relieves this feeling.
  • Feeling unable to move when waking up.
  • Daytime sleepiness; frequent daytime naps or falling asleep while doing routine tasks.
  • Behavioral changes like difficulty focusing or paying attention.
  • Mood changes like irritability and trouble managing emotions.
  • Difficulty meeting deadlines or performance expectations during school or work.
  • Frequent accidents or falls.

Patients experiencing these symptoms should speak with their primary care provider and ask for a referral to the PMC Sleep Center for an evaluation. From there, Dr. Carter and his team will work with the patient to build an effective treatment plan.

To learn more about the PMC Sleep Center, call (606) 430-2209 or visit: https://www.pikevillehospital.org/services/sleep-services/