Helping You Rest Easier and Better

Do you chronically have trouble getting a good night’s rest? Do you wake up feeling unrefreshed? You may have a sleep disorder. Did you know there are more than 80 different sleep disorders? At the MetroWest Medical Center Sleep Center and Sleep Disorder Lab, located at the Leonard Morse Hospital in Natick, our sleep specialists have helped thousands of people sleep better.

Do You Have a Sleep Disorder?

Not sure if you have a sleep problem? Here are a few questions to get you thinking:

• Do you snore loudly?
• Do you stop breathing or gasp for breath during sleep?
• Do you feel sleepy or doze off during daily activities, such as driving or reading?
• Do you have difficulty sleeping three or more nights a week?
• Do you feel an unpleasant tingling or creeping feeling in your legs when trying to sleep?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you could be suffering from a treatable sleep disorder.

Why Choose MetroWest?

At MetroWest, we offer advanced testing and treatment for a variety of sleep disorders, including:

• Private rooms, experienced staff and advanced equipment to make testing simple and comfortable
• All-night polysomnograms (sleep studies) and daytime polysomnograms (for shift workers)

Polysomnogram (Sleep Study): What to Expect

During the study, special sensors record the activity of the heart, lungs and brain; the movements of muscles; airflow from the nose and mouth; and the level of oxygen in the blood. Body movements are videotaped, and snoring, talking, or other noises made while asleep are recorded. A registered  technologist technician monitors the recording all night to observe your sleeping and check for problems. If severe sleep apnea is found during the night, the technologist may employ a device called CPAP, which keeps your air passages open and treats apnea and usually eliminates snoring.

Multiple Sleep Latency/Maintenance of Wakefulness Testing

A multiple sleep latency test or a maintenance of wakefulness test measure excessive sleepiness. These procedures require that you spend a day in the Sleep Disorders Center. The testing consists of either a series of naps, or trials of staying awake at different intervals. You should have a normal night’s sleep the night before, or your doctor may order a polysomnogram (sleep study) the night before.

Home Sleep Testing/Sleep Apnea Screener

Sleep apnea tests help diagnose excessive sleepiness, loud snoring and episodes of unusual activity at night. You’ll receive a test and personalized instructions for using the equipment. A home sleep test provides:

• A face-to-face visit with a trained technologist appointed by our medical staff to show you how to use the home test
• 24-hour phone assistance with MetroWest technologists to answer any equipment questions you may have
• Written and visual instructions to use once you’re home and ready to use home test

Visit the Sleep Disorders Center

Coming to spend some time with us? Here are a few tips to keep in mind to help ensure a comfortable and smooth process.

• Bathe and wash hair, avoiding conditioners, oils and makeup. Clean hair and skin help the sensors stay attached. If you have artificial nails, please remove one for oxygen monitoring.
• Stick to your normal routine. If you usually exercise or take medication before bed, ask your sleep doctor whether you should do so the night of your study. Please don’t bring food or drink to the sleep lab. Please refrain from any caffeinated or alcoholic beverages before your sleep study.
• Bring any amenities, two-piece sleepwear and a current list of your medications with dosages, pillow, books or magazines, and anything else that helps you to sleep comfortably. Tell the sleep technician if you’re uncomfortable or need any assistance during your sleep test.
• Overnight sleep tests usually conclude between 6 and 6:15 a.m. Most patients leave by 6;45 a.m and no later than 7 a.m. Smoking isn’t permitted in the hospital.
• We’ll pre-register you for your test, so there will be no waiting time. Please bring a photo ID and your insurance card. Please give us 24-hour notice if you should choose to cancel or need to reschedule your appointment.

For More Information

You don’t have to suffer with a sleep disorder. To request an appointment, or if you have any questions, please call the Sleep Disorders Center at (508) 650-7799.