How A Pulmonologist Can Help With Sleep Problems | A Guide For Patients

Health & Medical Blog

Do you wake up tired or struggle to stay asleep through the night? If so, you're not alone. Millions of Americans have trouble sleeping, which is detrimental to their health long term. Fortunately, there are medical professionals who can help. Here's what you need to know to get a better night's rest.

What Is a Pulmonologist?

A pulmonologist is a specialist in the field of respiratory medicine. They're trained to diagnose and treat lung diseases, including those that affect breathing, such as asthma and COPD. Pulmonologists are also qualified to diagnose and treat sleep disorders, as breathing difficulties often happen during sleep. They're experts in the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system and can identify issues affecting breathing and sleep. A pulmonologist will assess your symptoms, take an in-depth medical history, and conduct diagnostic tests to diagnose your sleep problem.

What Sleep Issues Does a Pulmonologist Treat?

Pulmonologists can treat a wide range of sleep issues, including:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the upper airway becomes blocked during sleep, resulting in brief periods of breathlessness. This blockage stops you from getting a good night's sleep, leaving you feeling tired and irritable the next day.
• Insomnia. Insomnia is a sleep disorder affecting your ability to fall or stay asleep. It can be caused by various factors such as stress, anxiety, or medical conditions.
• Narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that causes excessive sleepiness during the daytime. Individuals with this disorder may experience sudden sleep attacks at any time of the day.
• Restless Leg Syndrome. Restless leg syndrome is a condition that causes an irresistible urge to move your legs. It can disrupt sleep and cause daytime fatigue.
• Periodic Limb Movement Disorder. Similar to restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder is a condition that causes repetitive jerking movements in the legs or arms during sleep, which can lead to poor sleep quality.

How Can a Pulmonologist Help You?

A pulmonologist can help diagnose and treat your sleep issues. They'll conduct diagnostic tests, such as a sleep study, to determine the root cause of your symptoms. Once a diagnosis is made, they'll work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs. This may include lifestyle modifications, medication, or the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. A CPAP machine is often used to treat sleep apnea, delivering a continuous stream of pressurized air to keep your airway open during sleep.

If you're experiencing sleep issues, a pulmonologist can help. They're experts in diagnosing and treating respiratory-related sleep disorders. By working with a pulmonologist, you can finally get the help you need to get a good night's sleep, wake up refreshed and energized, and achieve optimal health.

For more information, contact a pulmonologist near you.

12 June 2023