Sleep Medicine

Our Approach

Sleep disorders can cause a number of health issues. At Franciscan Health, our sleep medicine doctors can help you find restful, restorative sleep and prevent side effects.

Treatment options for sleep disorders

We offer multiple treatments for sleep disorders.

CPAP machines

CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are the most common treatment for sleep-related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea. We fit people for a CPAP device, which keeps your airway open and ensures consistent, healthy breathing during sleep.

Oral appliances

Oral appliances, such as an orthodontic retainer, can be word during sleep to help with things like snoring and sleep apnea. These sleep retainers are specially made by your dentist or a dentist who specializes in sleep medicine. The dentist makes an impression of your upper and lower teeth to create the device. You wear an oral appliance like you would a mouth guard for teeth grinding.

Some people experience temporary jaw soreness as they get used to an overnight oral appliance. We'll provide you with information and exercises that can help.

Behavioral therapy

Behavioral therapy begins with keeping a sleep diary for at least two weeks. You record the times you wake, go to sleep and nap, as well as activities you do before sleeping.

You'll review your diary with your sleep doctor or one of our trained sleep specialists. Together, you’ll make a plan that includes adjustments to gradually increase your quality of sleep.

Positional therapy

Some people only experience sleep-related breathing issues when they sleep on one side. The problem goes away when they sleep on the opposite side.

We may recommend special shirts or devices you can wear that prevent you from turning in your sleep or sleeping on the affected side. Positional therapy may also be an option for people who can't tolerate a CPAP machine.

Medication

Medication may be recommended for some patients to improve sleep time and quality.

We may prescribe medication for some sleep conditions, including:

• Chronic insomnia
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Restless legs syndrome

Why treat sleep disorders?

Sleep disorders can leave you feeling tired and functioning poorly. Sleep disorders also increase your chances of developing certain medical conditions, including:

• High blood pressure
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Stroke
• Diabetes

Types of sleep disorders

Sleep disorders we treat include:

• Sleep-related breathing disorders:
  • Sleep apnea
  • Snoring
• Sleep movement disorders:
  • Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
  • Periodic limb movement disorder(PLMD) 
• Insomnia
• Narcolepsy
• Parasomnias (sleepwalking, nightmares)
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Circadian rhythm disorders, including shift-work and delayed sleep phase