The Sleep Disorders Center at Saint Francis Medical Center introduced comprehensive sleep studies to the southeast Missouri region. Staffed by technicians who are credentialed by the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists, the Sleep Disorders Center in Cape Girardeau diagnoses and treats all common sleep disorders, including:
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea, a common disorder experienced by approximately five percent of Americans, occurs when airways collapse and breathing stops for a short while during sleep.
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy, a lifelong disorder involving the brain’s inability to regulate sleep and wakefulness, is most commonly diagnosed in the teen years and is thought to be hereditary and possibly environmentally affected. Symptoms of narcolepsy may include:
Temporary lack of muscle control while excited
Vivid dreams upon falling asleep/awaking
Brief inability to move or talk upon waking
Periodic Limb Movement of Sleep
Periodic limb movement of sleep is characterized by involuntary muscle spasms in the legs that occur while asleep.
Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless legs syndrome is a deep creeping or crawling sensation in the legs that causes an urge to move them when awake.