 |
 |
 |
|
||
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
Emotional HealthDiagnosis and TreatmentIn addition to the primary care physician, pulmonologists (lung specialists), neurologists, or other physicians with specialty training in sleep disorders may be involved in making a definitive diagnosis and initiating treatment. Diagnosis of sleep apnea is not simple because there can be many different reasons for disturbed sleep. Several tests are available for evaluating a person for sleep apnea and are usually performed in a sleep center.The specific therapy for sleep apnea is tailored to the individual patient based on medical history, physical examination, and the results of polysomnography, a test that records a variety of body functions during sleep. Medications are generally not effective in the treatment of sleep apnea. Oxygen administration may safely benefit certain patients but does not eliminate sleep apnea or prevent daytime sleepiness. Thus, the role of oxygen in the treatment of sleep apnea is controversial, and it is difficult to predict which patients will respond well. It is important that the effectiveness of the selected treatment is verified; this is usually accomplished again by polysomnography. Treatment may include behavioral therapy, physical or mechanical therapy, or surgery.
|
|
 Clinicians | Practices | All About Pregnancy | All About MidLife | Health & Wellness | Home  ©2001-2002 Women's Health USA, Inc. |