Dreaming of a good night's sleep?

The National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research has found that 40 million Americans are chronically ill with various sleep disorders. If not treated, a sleep disorder could lead to heart attacks, strokes, car accidents, or problems at home or work.

What are the symptoms of a sleep disorder?

Sleep disorder symptoms include:

• Snoring
• Gasping for air
• High blood pressure
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Irritability
• Trouble falling or staying asleep
• "Creepy-crawly" feeling in the legs when resting
• Any unusual activity that disturbs your sleep or your partner's sleep

Should you consider a sleep study?

Most sleep disorders are easily treated, which can greatly improve your quality of life. The sleep test, or Polysommography, is usually covered by insurance as an outpatient procedure and is completed with a short stay in the sleep lab.

If you suspect you may have a sleep disorder, discuss the problem with your doctor who can refer you to a DePaul Sleep Diagnostic Center.

What can you expect during your sleep study?

There is nothing to fear while taking part in a sleep study. When you arrive at the DePaul Sleep Diagnostic Center, a few hours prior to your regular bedtime, you will be greeted by a trained sleep technician. He or she will show you to your hotel-like accommodations, where you should have no trouble feeling comfortable and at home.

Once you are settled in and ready to begin the study, the sleep technician will attach sensors to various areas of your skin with a special paste and tape application. You are free to watch television (which is provided in every room, with a wide variety of local and cable stations), read, or just relax prior to falling asleep.

SSM DePaul Health Center has two sleep diagnostic testing centers. The first is located in Florissant, at 3837 Vaile Avenue. The second center is located across from the health center at 3440 DePaul Lane, Suite 207 in Bridgeton.

For more information, call (314) 770-0809.