Google+
YouTube
CALL US
860-254-6189

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea for Improved Health and Well-Being in Windsor, CT

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep. Many individuals are unknowingly suffering from sleep apnea due to misdiagnosis. Our Windsor, CT sleep specialist, Dr. Roberta Garceau is dedicated to shedding light on the importance of diagnosing sleep apnea for effective management and enhanced well-being.

For an accurate sleep apnea diagnosis, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Garceau by calling our Windsor, CT, office at (860) 254-6189. 

woman sleeping

Compassionate Care for Restful Sleep

If you’re struggling with sleep apnea or snoring, Dr. Roberta Garceau in Windsor, CT offers a caring, effective solution that helps you finally rest easy. Known for her compassionate approach and personalized care, Dr. Garceau provides custom oral appliances designed to gently reposition your jaw, keeping your airway open while you sleep—no noisy machines or uncomfortable masks.

Patients from Windsor, Bloomfield, Hartford, East Granby, and South Windsor trust Dr. Garceau and her team to deliver real results with comfort and kindness. Our patient Craig M. shared his experience:

  • “Dr. Garceau, Stephanie, and all the staff are great! My experience with my sleep apnea oral appliance has been great. I feel a lot better because I am getting better sleep under their direction. Highly recommend this doctor and staff. They really do care about their patient’s well being.”

If you’re looking for a gentle, experienced provider who truly listens, Dr. Garceau is among the best dentists near you for treating sleep apnea with a non-invasive approach that works.

sleep study

What Is a Sleep Study?

A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is a diagnostic test conducted to evaluate various aspects of sleep. It’s the primary method used to diagnose sleep disorders, including sleep apnea. During a sleep study, patients are monitored overnight in a sleep center, and data on their sleep patterns, brain activity, heart rate, eye movement, and other parameters are collected.

Types of Sleep Studies

There are two distinct types of sleep studies, including:

  • In-Lab Polysomnography: Conducted in our Windsor sleep center, this traditional sleep study involves spending a night in a monitored room while connected to various sensors. Technicians observe and record data to assess sleep quality and detect sleep disorders.
  • Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT): This portable alternative allows patients to conduct the sleep study in the comfort of their own homes. It typically involves a simplified set of sensors to monitor key parameters, such as airflow, oxygen levels, and respiratory effort.

Common Sleep Disorders Diagnosed With Sleep Studies

Apart from sleep apnea, sleep studies can help diagnose several other sleep disorders, including:

  • Insomnia: Characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
  • Narcolepsy: Involves excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of muscle weakness (cataplexy).
  • Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often disrupting sleep.
  • Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD): Involves repetitive leg movements during sleep, leading to brief awakenings.

The Sleep Study Process

man sitting on bedThe process of partaking in a sleep study is simple and usually involves:

  1. Preparation: Before the study, patients may need to avoid certain medications or substances that could interfere with the results. They are advised to maintain their usual sleep routine.
  2. Arrival at the Sleep Center: Patients arrive at the sleep center in the evening, where they are greeted by sleep technicians. The setup involves attaching sensors to various parts of the body.
  3. Monitoring: Throughout the night, our skilled team will observe the patient’s sleep patterns, breathing, and other physiological parameters. The collected data help in identifying sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.
  4. Post-Study Analysis: After the study, Dr. Garceau analyzes the data to make a diagnosis. The results guide the development of a personalized treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can sleep apnea be diagnosed without a sleep study?
How long does a sleep study take?
What if I have difficulty sleeping during the study?
What happens after a sleep apnea diagnosis?
Can sleep apnea be diagnosed without a sleep study?
While a clinical evaluation may raise suspicions, a sleep study is essential for an accurate diagnosis. In-lab polysomnography and home sleep apnea tests are common diagnostic tools.
How long does a sleep study take?
In-lab polysomnography usually lasts a full night, while home sleep apnea tests cover one or more nights. The duration ensures sufficient data for accurate diagnosis.
What if I have difficulty sleeping during the study?
It’s normal to experience difficulty sleeping in an unfamiliar environment. However, sleep technicians are trained to make patients as comfortable as possible, and the goal is to capture a representative night of sleep.
What happens after a sleep apnea diagnosis?
Treatment options vary but may include lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, or surgical interventions. Treatment plans are tailored to individual needs.

Get an Accurate Diagnosis at Our Windsor Office

Recognizing and addressing sleep apnea not only uncovers potential health risks but also paves the way for personalized interventions. Whether choosing an in-lab polysomnography or a convenient home sleep apnea test, the journey to better sleep involves collaboration between healthcare professionals and patients. 

To embark on the path to improved sleep, schedule a consultation with our Windsor sleep apnea specialist by calling (860) 254-6189. Dr. Garceau is dedicated to enhancing the sleep quality of Connecticut patients in Granby, Hartford, Simsbury, Windsor, and the surrounding areas.