Sleep is a basic necessity of life, as important to our health and well-being as air, food, and water. When we sleep well, we wake up feeling refreshed, alert and ready to face daily challenges. When we don’t, every part of our lives can suffer. Our jobs, relationships, productivity, health and safety (and that of those around us) are all put at risk. And lack of sleep due to sleep loss or sleep disorders is taking a serious toll. The 2002 National Sleep Foundation (NSF) Sleep in America poll found that 74 percent of American adults are experiencing a sleeping problem a few nights a week or more, 39 percent get less than seven hours of sleep each weeknight, and more than one in three (37 percent) are so sleepy during the day that it interferes with daily activities. In the past century, we have reduced our average time in sleep. Though our society has changed, our brains and bodies have not. Sleep deprivation is affecting us all and we are paying the price.

The Winchester Sleep Center offers the latest technology coupled with specially trained physicians and technicians who detect and treat sleep disorders. Patients are referred to the sleep center by physicians or through self-referral. When you come to the center, the sleep physician will conduct a physical exam and history evaluation. The evaluation may be the key to discovering the cause of the sleep problem.

In other cases, it may be necessary to monitor the patient one or more nights. Daytime nap studies may also be suggested, these studies are conducted in a private, home-like room state-of-the-art sleep diagnostic equipment and closed circuit television to record sleep patterns, breathing, heart activity and body movement. The sleep physician, who also recommends methods of treatment, interprets the results. Treatment may involve learning relaxation techniques, CPAP, medication or other non-surgical alternatives.

Your doctor can help you if you clearly describe your sleep concern. Before speaking with your doctor think of sleep symptoms that bother you and how often they occur. A sleep diary can help you collect this information. Don’t wait for your regular checkup or another medical problem to see your doctor. If you suspect you have a sleep disorder, make an appointment to assess the situation. Speak with your bed partner about your sleep habitats. You may experience many symptoms that your partner is more aware of than you.

The Winchester Sleep Center is open Monday –Friday 9am-5pm. Your physician may wish to call and arrange for your evaluation or you may make an appointment yourself. We can also arrange a tour of The Sleep Center before your appointment.