Guideline to Sleep Disorder Consultation

Authors

Don O. Williams Sr, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Sleep Medicine

Advisor

Dr. Bret Rust

Abstract

Is it because of a sleep disorder? Due to the increasing complaints of sleep-related issues and the severe consequences untreated sleep disorders may cause, it is imperative to know how to identify sleep disorders and when to consult a sleep specialist. On average there are 50-70 million adults in the United States that have sleep-related disorders.¹ There are several sleep disorders, but the most common are Insomnia and Sleep Disordered Breathing, (Apnea / Hypopnea). The prevalence of common sleep disorders are, Insomnia 10-30%; Sleep Apnea 5%; Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) 10% and Narcolepsy 0.05%. Most commonly diagnosed disorders of a patient that presented to the sleep center are Sleep Apnea 67.8%, RLS 4.9%, and Narcolepsy 3.2%. ² Sleep Disorders have a significant impact on health and quality of life. Primary Care Providers have an enormous task of seeing patients on a minimal schedule and require tools to facilitate quick and accurate evaluations of sleep issues. It is essential to know how to screen for sleep issues and when and where to refer patients for further assessment and treatment. Sleep disorders have the propensity to create and or exacerbate disorders such as mental health issues, hypertension, Kidney disorders, and cardiovascular disease, thereby increasing morbidity, and mortality.

Recommended Citation

Williams DO. Guideline to Sleep Disorder Consultation. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2019; 1(1).