Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We understand that you might not be aware that you have a sleep disorder, or what certain sleep disorders are, so we wanted to provide you with some frequently asked questions about sleep disorders to help educate you.

Q: What Causes Sleep Disorders?

There are different causes for different sleep disorders, including:

  • Other conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, nerve disorders, and pain
  • Mental illnesses, including depression and anxiety
  • Medicines
  • Genetics
  • Sometimes the cause is not known

There are also some factors that can contribute to sleep problems, including:

  • Caffeine and alcohol
  • An irregular schedule, such as working the night shift
  • Aging. As people age, they often get less sleep or spend less time in the deep, restful stage of sleep. They are also more easily awakened.
  • What are the symptoms of sleep disorders?

Q: How are Sleep Disorders Diagnosed?

To make a diagnosis, the Sleep Center at Comprehensive team will use your medical history, your sleep history, and a physical exam. You may also have a sleep study (polysomnogram). The most common types of sleep studies monitor and record data about your body during a full night of sleep. The data includes:

  • Brain wave changes
  • Eye movements
  • Breathing rate
  • Blood pressure
  • Heart rate and electrical activity of the heart and other muscles
  • Other types of sleep studies may check how quickly you fall asleep during daytime naps or whether you are able to stay awake and alert during the day.

Q: What Happens in a Sleep Study?

When you come in for an overnight sleep study at Sleep Center at Comprehensive, you are hooked up to small sensors that transmit information about sleep patterns and vital signs into a computer. You are monitored by a trained technician throughout the night to help you if you need anything and to make sure we are getting the proper information. Our rooms are spacious, with a queen size bed for comfort. If you have difficulty falling asleep, your doctor may prescribe a mild sleeping agent.

W: What Are Some Treatments for Sleep Disorders

Treatments for sleep disorders depend on which disorder you have. They may include:

  • Good sleep habits and other lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and exercise
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy or relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety about getting enough sleep
  • CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine for sleep apnea
  • Bright light therapy (in the morning)
  • Medicines, including sleeping pills. Usually, providers recommend that you use sleeping pills for a short period of time.
  • Natural products, such as melatonin. These products may help some people, but are generally for short-term use. Make sure to check with your health care provider before you take any of them.

Get Help from Sleep Center at Comprehensive

Sleep Center at Comprehensive, a division of Comprehensive Cancer Centers and Lung Center of Nevada is here to be a resource for you. We wanted to let you understand some frequently asked questions so you will have a better understanding of what sleep disorders are and what options you have should you be diagnosed.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, contact us today to schedule a sleep study so we can come up with the treatment plan best for you.