Charlevoix Area Hospital opens Sleep Center

A new clinical program to monitor, diagnose, and treat a variety of sleep disorders has opened at Charlevoix Area Hospital.

Called The Sleep Center, the program is housed in the hospital, where patients come to spend the night in a comfortable, home-like room.  While there, registered sleep technologists, nurses, and respiratory therapists observe and record sleep patterns.  Two area physicians, N. Craig Boss, MD, and David A. Walker, DO, FCCP oversee the diagnostic services.

In recent years, much has been learned about the importance of sleep, and the nature of sleep disorders—physical or psychological conditions that disturb sleep.

“Good sleep is absolutely vital to good health,” explains Sharon Smorch, a Registered Polysomnographic Technologist who manages the center.  “Sleep affects learning, concentration, coordination, energy, mood, appetite, weight, sexual function, blood pressure, cardio-vascular efficiency, and more.  Without adequate sleep, we are at risk for some serious health problems like stroke or heart attack.”

According to Smorch, more than 10% of Americans are affected by a sleep disorder that interrupts or prevents a restful night.  Common disorders include insomnia, snoring or sleep apnea, uncontrolled leg movements, narcolepsy, and “parasomnias” such as talking during sleep or frequent nightmares.

At the Sleep Center, technicians use sophisticated electronic monitors that gather information about a sleeping patient’s heart rate, brain waves, eye movement, chest muscle and diaphragm effort, leg motion, breathing, and airflow.  Data are analyzed by Dr. Boss or Dr, Walker, who prepare a written report for each patient’s primary physician, along with a diagnosis, and recommendations for treatment.

Smorch says most sleep disorders are easily corrected with the help of medication, breathing assistance, modifications in diet, or lifestyle changes.  “Patients are amazed at the difference in their lives.  Once treated, they feel so much better and have more energy.”

Diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders is usually covered by health insurance.  More information about the Charlevoix Area Hospital Sleep Center is available by calling the center, (231) 547-8900.