Showing posts with label sleep disorders. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sleep disorders. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Free Women's Sleep Disorders Seminar

JWM Neurology & Holder Mattress Factory Present a FREE Seminar:

"Common Treatable Sleep Disorders in Women"

Having trouble sleeping? You’re not alone! In this free seminar, Meredith Cousin, MD, a neurologist and sleep disorders specialist with JWM Neurology will talk about conditions that
influence sleep patterns and keep you from waking up rested. From sleep apnea and Restless Legs Syndrome to insomnia and hormone/pregnancy-related sleep issues, you’ll learn about common sleep disorders that can be treated.

Holder Mattress experts will demonstrate the correlation between a properly constructed mattress and a good night's sleep.

• Thursday, May 21st
• 6:00 p.m.
• Holder Mattress Factory:
1422 S. Rangeline Rd., Carmel, IN
(116th St. and Rangeline Road)


Space is limited so please R.S.V.P.


• Holder Mattress 317-848-2939
• JWM Neurology 317-308-2828, ext. 1604

Refreshments will be served.

Friday, January 2, 2009

Common Questions About CPAP

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, chances are good that you have been told to wear a CPAP mask while you sleep in order to treat the condition. CPAP is an acronym that stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. Typically, a face mask is connected to a pump and forces air into the nasal passages to stimulate proper breathing.

Here are some common questions our sleep disorders physicians are asked about CPAP along with their answers. If you are having trouble with your CPAP be sure to speak to your physician. Many sleep disorders labs have regularly scheduled CPAP clinics where patients can go and get their problems worked out.

My CPAP mask is uncomfortable and does not fit properly. What should I do?
Often times, patients have to try out a few different masks before they get a proper fit. Masks can also be individually adjusted to fit comfortably. If you are having problems contact your health care provider to see what can be done.

Is there one CPAP mask that fits all people?
No, unfortunately there is not. Everyone’s facial shape and features are different, therefore there are a variety of masks available. It’s important you find the right one with the proper fit to ensure you are able to wear your CPAP consistently.

Do I need to wear my CPAP every night?
Consistency is the key in treating disorders such as sleep apnea. Therefore, it’s important to wear your mask every night. The more you wear it, the more you’ll get used to sleeping comfortably. Sleep apnea actually causes you to stop breathing several times during sleep and is therefore a very dangerous condition. It can cause stroke or heart attack if left untreated.

My throat gets dry when I use my CPAP. Is this normal?
Yes, this is a common complaint. Many CPAP machines come with a humidifier control which helps control dry mouth. If your particular model does not have this function, ask your health care provider about upgrading or trading in your machine.

How long will it take my CPAP to become effective?
Everyone is different, however, it can range from several weeks to a few months. It all depends on your diagnosis. The key is to wear your CPAP every night (or day if you are a shift worker) once you’re fitted. It will be uncomfortable and awkward at first, but once patients get into the habit, it becomes a routine part of sleep hygiene.

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Pregnancy and Sleep

Pregnant and sleeping for two or more? If so, your sleep quality may change – especially by your third trimester.

Increased sleep complaints during pregnancy are often due to endocrine and physiologic changes in the body. The increase in progesterone that accompanies pregnancy naturally increases fatigue, raises body temperature, increases respiratory rate and intensifies the need for frequent urination. Physical changes such as the increase in abdominal mass and vascular load all lead to poor sleep quality.

Often during the first trimester, there is an increase in total sleep time and the need for naps; however, sleep quality can be poor due to frequent awakenings during the night.

Initial changes in sleep patterns typically occur in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy and then increase during the third trimester and early postpartum weeks. Be aware of:

  • slight decreases in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep
  • decrease in deep sleep
  • decrease in sleep efficiency
  • increased awakenings after initially falling asleep

Women who have never before snored may begin to do so when pregnant. Snoring in expectant mothers is caused from inflammation in the nasal passages. This can lead to Obstructive Sleep Apnea, caused by a blockage in the airway, which is a very dangerous condition. It can cause death if not treated.

A condition known as Restless Legs (RLS) can also develop during the third trimester of pregnancy which causes an uncontrolled urge to move the legs. A contributing factor often may be iron or folic acid deficiency, so be sure to tell your doctor if you have these symptoms.

The best tips for a good night’s sleep when expecting: learn to relax utilizing breathing and other relaxation techniques. A warm shower or bath may also be helpful.

Monday, September 24, 2007

Join Us At Indianapolis Senior Expo

JWM Neurology will have an educational exhibit at the Indianapolis Senior Expo on Thursday, October 4th. The Expo will take place at the Indiana State Fairgrounds from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit www.seniorexpos.com and click on “Indianapolis”. It’s always a great place with lots of vendors and booths full of information for mature adults.

Meet JWM Neurology Sleep Disorder’s Specialist, Raymond Loffer, MD and Nurse Practitioner, Gina Davis. They will be on hand to answer your questions about sleep disorders and neurological diseases and conditions. We will also be handing out sleep disorder quizzes and memory quizzes.