I've been an insomniac for as long as I can remember. I've tried every sleeping pill available. Ambien worked for a while, but no longer works. I've finally broken down and I've made an appointment at a Sleep Center (it's not until Aug!). Has anyone had one done? What do they do? Is it only to diagnose sleep apnea or other things too? I really I don't think I have sleep apnea, my husband says I don't stop breathing. I do snore a little. :faint:

Sleeping pills make some Sleep Disorders WORSE. (eg Sleep Apnea, ferinstance...)

They put wires with glue on your head and body (legs), etc. An Oxygen detection clip goes on your finger. A breathing detector goes in front of your nose and a breathing-detector strap around your chest.

Not the most comfortable.

There are over 200 sleep disorders, i beleive.

My husband has had two sleep studies. He said they were no big deal.

He checked just like he was at a doctor's office, but at 8:30 at night. Then an employee took him to what looked like a hotel room. He changed into his sleep clothes, and another employee put some electrodes and clips on him (the second study he also had what looked and felt like a hospital oxygen mask). Then he read for a while and went to sleep.

Another employee came in after he woke up the next morning, and unhooked everything. Then he was free to come home and shower and get ready for work.

No big deal. His family doctor had the report about a week later and went over it with him.

It can diagnose a lot of stuff. Sounds like making the appointment because of insomnia could be the right first step for you. Good luck!

Thanks DianeS. I'm just wondering how I'll be able to sleep with all them things hooked up to me and people watching when I can't sleep at home in my own comfy bed! :D

No kidding Bunny!! I'd wonder about that too!! I don't think I could sleep with all that!

Insomnia's not my problem, but constant fatigue and overwhelming afternoon sleepiness has been my issue since puberty!

Sue

Melissa,

It was pretty tough for me psychologically to fall asleep with the technician watching. In the end it didn't take away from any of the data that was collected. This is a good step for you and once its over, your doctor should be able to make a pretty confident diagnosis.

It felt very empowering to know what I was facing. I hope you find that same confidence.

Thanks DeeJay. I'm actually looking forward to it. It's not until August, hopefully they'll get a cancellation and I can get in sooner. :)

I had two done, I have mild sleep apnea.

The technicians were very nice, but I had a terrible time sleeping the first time because of all the wires, etc. The second time was uncomfortable but I knew what to expect.

Hope they find what's happening with your insomnia,
and sweet dreams. :)