Q: "How many types of diagnosable sleep disorder are out there?"
A: "over 96 types"
YEAP, that's why it is highly recommended that you consult with your preferred sleep doctor first. But, before you head down to the doctor, here is a quick guide to help you decide.
Why should I take Obstructive Sleep Apnea seriously?
You experience severe daytime tiredness, and it can affect your school or work.
Your wife complains about your "Loud Snoring", and threaten to kick you off the bedroom.
You fall asleep at wheels during the red light, or experience "Drowsy Driving" due to sleepiness. You are accident prone!
Okay... how can I tell if I have OSA?
It all depends on your symptoms, I have listed down some common sleep disorders for your reference.
Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS) - Snoring, Brief and frequent arousals during sleep, Daytime sleepiness
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) - Snoring, Waking up gasping for air, Waking up with a dry mouth/headache, Frequent Awakening, Daytime sleepiness
REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder - Engage in movements or Abnormal activity during sleep.
Circadian Rhythm Disorder - A persistent "Jet Lag", Disrupted Sleep-Was cycle, Insomnia.
Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) - Repetitive movement of limbs during sleep.
WatchPAT Sleep Study is reliable in the diagnosis of Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome and Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and this test can be done at the comfort at your home.
Is there another way "to confirm" if I am at risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
You may test yourself with these questionnaires, it's FREE.
You are at higher risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea if you score:
Yes to 5-8 questions
or Yes to 2 or more of 4 STOP questions + male gender
or Yes to 2 or more of 4 STOP questions + BMI > 35kg/m2
or Yes to 2 or more of 4 STOP questions + neck circumference > 17" for male/16" for female.
You are at higher risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea if you score:
Moderate daytime sleepiness (13 - 16)
Severe daytime sleepiness (>16)
So, it seems like I might have OSA, do I still need a sleep study?
Symptoms are not a diagnosis. Without a sleep study to confirm the symptoms, your doctor would not know which treatment options to recommend. Furthermore, medical insurance will not pay for treatment if there is no proof of "medical necessity".
If you want to learn more about sleep apnea and WatchPAT home sleep study, you can visit my website www.sleepcentered.com.sg.
Regards, CK
ck.sim@sleepcentered.com.sg
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