Most people have never seen a sleep specialist, unfortunately only seeking out these experts when a sleep disorder becomes unbearable. However, considering that around 70 million people in the U.S. alone have a sleep disorder (many undiagnosed), it is important to consider this specialty just as crucial as seeing a dermatologist, dentist, or other healthcare professional. In many cases, a patient is referred to a sleep specialist by their general physician, but this is not a requirement and it is not uncommon for a GP to forget such a referral. You do not need a referral to make an appointment at The Insomnia and Sleep Institute of Arizona, and your initial consultation is always with a sleep specialist who can diagnose sleep disorders.
Nearly half (48 percent) of people self-report snoring according to the Sleep Association, and it is likely that over half of people actually snore. Considering that snoring is usually reported by someone who overhears the person sleeping, those who do not share a room or bed with others might snore and be unaware of it. Additionally, almost 38 percent of people have reported unintentionally falling asleep in the daytime at least once in the past month, which can be an indicator of various sleep disorders including insomnia and sleep apnea.
The Many Types of Sleep Disorders
There are scores of sleep disorders, and those that are more common (such as insomnia) are not always taken seriously by the general public due to their commonality. However, sleep disorders are also serious. In fact, 4.7 percent of people have reported unintentionally falling asleep while driving in the last month. It is estimated that “driving drowsy” has been the cause of 1,550 fatal injuries and 40,000 non-fatal collisions every year in the U.S. alone.
Insomnia is the most common type of sleep disorder, being self-reported by around 30 percent of all adults and with 10 percent struggling with chronic insomnia. It is also estimated that 25 million adults in the U.S. have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a type of disorder that is most often treated with CPAP therapy. The Insomnia and Sleep Institute is proud to serve the Phoenix region as the “Face of Sleep Medicine,” achieving the title of “Top Doc” in the area for the past six consecutive years, and also offers Inspire implants for OSA patients who have not had success with CPAP therapy.
Sleep Matters in Phoenix
On average, more men (24 – 31 percent) than women (9 – 21 percent) suffer from OSA. One known factor for OSA is obesity, and obesity is said to be a factor in 3 – 5 percent of those with OSA. Another issue with chronic OSA is the patient’s inability to use CPAP therapy correctly, with only 66 percent adhering to correct usage. One common reason that CPAP therapy is not adhered to is that the patient has not been matched with the right equipment. At The Insomnia and Sleep Institute, our team works with you to ensure a comfortable and correct CPAP fit for an optimal outcome.
Although OSA is more common in men than women, women certainly struggle more with insomnia—however, only 1.3 percent of adults report using melatonin (a natural supplement that may help with insomnia). It has been reported that 40 percent of people ages 40 – 59 have a “short sleep duration,” while 37 percent of those 20 – 39 report the same. On average, 35.5 percent of adults say they get less than seven hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. Sleep deprivation is a serious issue, with 100,000 deaths in the country every year being attributed to medical errors caused by sleep deprivation. This is just one industry to consider and which highlights how critical proper, good sleep is for everyone.
Get the Sleep You Need in the East Valley
Have you noticed that you, your partner, or your child seems to be struggling with a sleep disorder? We are home to unprecedented staffing levels with a clinical psychologist focused in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia, three sleep specialists, and many other sleep experts. Your first consultation is with a sleep specialist who can diagnose sleep disorders, which is the first step before testing and treating can begin (as needed).
To book your consultation with The Insomnia and Sleep Institute, complete the quick online form or call the office today.
