Rise and shine!
Not everyone dreams while curled up and cozy in bed. People who have rapid eye movement behavior disorder (RBD) physically act out their dreams and nightmares. They may move their arms and legs in bed or even get up and move about as if they were waking. Some talk, shout, scream, hit, punch or leap out of bed, endangering themselves, their sleeping partner or anyone they come in contact with. The disorder is so completely documented that it’s been used as a legal defense when people have been sleeping and acted violently. Despite being a rare disorder, RBD can be diagnosed at The Institute for Sleep Medicine at Deborah Heart and Lung Center, as can more common conditions such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea. Dana Supe, M.D., Director of the Sleep Diagnostics Lab, and her team help hundreds of patients every year get the sleep they need.
Finding a sleep solution
Some sleep disorders can be life threatening, so getting to the root of the problem and establishing atreatment plan are essential. “While it’s true that some of the more complex and unusual disorders are less known, it’s vital that sleep lab professionals know about them,” says Dr. Supe. “Maintaining a high level of proficiency in treating sleep disorders is the reason the Institute for Sleep Medicine has been granted full accreditation by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. In an accredited facility like Deborah, our expertise includes experience in treating all of the more than 80 sleep disorders.” Deborah’s state-of-the-art sleep lab offers hotellike comfort for patients who undergo an overnight sleep study. Using sensitive monitors and skilled clinical observation, Deborah’s staff can quickly pinpoint the problems that cause poor sleep. “With expert diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach, we can put together a treatment plan that soon has our patients back on the road to a good night’s sleep,” says Dr. Supe. “And a good night’s sleep is one of the cornerstones to a healthy and vibrant life.”
Like a thief in the night, sleep disorders rob you of something precious: the energy you need to function well physically, intellectually and socially. If you’re not getting the rest you need and sleep troubles last more than a few weeks, talk to your healthcare provider about a sleep study referral to the Institute for Sleep Medicine. And visit us online at www.deborah.org to learn more about why we’re fully accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Rest easy—we can help!