Sleep Lab
The McAlester Regional Sleep Lab provides studies for the diagnosis of sleep disorders of all kinds. These studies record data derived from a patient’s recorded sleep and breathing patterns that help diagnose sleep apnea and other disorders. Studies are performed in a sleep lab with private, comfortable and quiet rooms.
Lack of sleep significantly affects your health. Studies show an increased mortality risk for those reporting less than six or seven hours of sleep each night. Chronic snoring is associated with an increased incidence of heart and brain related diseases. Sleep Apnea is associated with diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure and stroke. New studies suggest that obesity is also related to not getting good rest.
Sleep deprivation accounts for an increase in accident rates and has a negative impact on work productivity. People who don’t get enough rest may exhibit symptoms such as frequent sleepiness, nodding off at meetings or while driving, difficulty with concentration, lapses in memory, poor work performance and moodiness.
If you have problems with sleeping, notify your physician. Continued lack of sleep is debilitating and has negative long-term health effects if left untreated.
Average Sleep Requirements
Infants – 16-18 hours
Teenagers – 9 hours
Adults – 7 to 8 hours
Elderly – 9 hours (generally shorter periods with fewer deep sleep stages)
Sleep Quiz
If you experience several of these symptoms, you may have a sleeping disorder. Be sure and let your physician know if you are having problems with sleep.
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You’ve been told you snore
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You hold your breath while asleep
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You kick and jerk while asleep
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Have high blood pressure
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Are often grumpy or cranky
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Have morning headaches
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You are overweight
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You often feel sleepy during the day
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Have dry mouth in the morning
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Have an acid or sour taste at night
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Have frequent sore throats
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Wake up coughing or wheezing
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Have heartburn at night
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Have trouble falling asleep
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Experience problems with concentration
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Fall asleep while driving
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Have aching or tingling sensations in your legs at night that make you want to move them for relief
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Have vivid nightmares or scenes just upon falling asleep or awakening
