Lack of sleep is a major health problem that many people face, both physically and mentally. In particular, if someone suspects that they are suffering from insomnia, they should seek medical advice from a healthcare provider. In this way, possible sleep problems can be diagnosed and appropriate treatment methods can be discussed.
Patients with insomnia can usually consult family physicians, who are primary health care providers. Family physicians can evaluate sleep problems and, if necessary, refer the patient to a specialized sleep doctor for further investigations. Sleep disorders are of primary interest to psychiatrists (or psychiatrists) and neurologists (neurologists).
If sleep problems become chronic or an underlying medical condition is suspected, it may be more appropriate to consult a doctor who specializes in sleep disorders.
Which doctor to see for insomnia?
To deal with insomnia problems, family physicians, who are usually primary health care providers, can be consulted. You can also consult a sleep doctor who specializes in sleep disorders. Such doctors usually specialize in sleep medicine, neurology or psychiatry. Insomnia symptoms may be associated with other medical conditions, so it is important to consult a doctor to identify underlying health problems and receive appropriate treatment.
Which Department Treats Sleep Disorders?
Not sleeping at night or having difficulty sleeping can be caused by many different reasons and can often be a symptom of a sleep disorder. Not sleeping at night or insomnia can manifest itself with the following symptoms:
Difficulty falling asleep: Difficulty falling asleep when it is time to sleep,
Frequent waking during sleep: Frequent waking during the night and difficulty getting back to sleep,
Early awakening Waking up early in the morning and having difficulty going back to sleep,
Insufficient sleep duration: Not getting enough sleep time during the night,
Poor quality sleep: Not feeling rested when you sleep, experiencing constant fatigue or weakness,
Daytime sleepiness Excessive daytime sleepiness or the desire to sleep during the day,
Insomnia anxiety: Worry, anxiety or stress about not being able to sleep.
These symptoms can vary from person to person and can have a negative impact on quality of life. If you have difficulty sleeping at night or persistent sleep problems, it is important to consult a sleep specialist or health professional. Insomnia can be a symptom of an underlying health problem, or it can be caused by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety and depression. Left untreated, it can lead to long-term health problems, so specialist help is important.
Sleep Test
Sleep testing can consist of a variety of tests to diagnose sleep disorders and assess sleep quality. These tests are usually performed at a sleep center or sleep laboratory and are led by a sleep specialist. Here are some common types of sleep tests:
Polysomnography (PSG): This test is used to monitor different functions of the body during sleep. Parameters such as depth of sleep, breathing and heart rhythm are recorded using various sensors such as EEG (electroencephalography to measure brain activity), electrooculography (EOG) to monitor eye movements, electromyography (EMG) to monitor muscle activity.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT): This test is used to assess daytime sleepiness. The person's ability to fall asleep for specific periods of time measured at specific intervals is assessed.
Keeping a Sleep Diary: The person may be asked to keep a daily diary for a period of time to track sleep habits and daily activities. This can help identify irregularities in sleep patterns or changes in sleep quality.
Sleep Questionnaires and Assessments: A series of questionnaires or assessment forms can be used to assess a person's sleep habits, difficulties falling and staying asleep, and daytime sleepiness. Such assessments can be used in combination with a clinical examination to help diagnose sleep problems.
The sleep test is determined depending on the signs and symptoms the person is experiencing and their medical history. If you suspect a sleep problem, it is important to contact a sleep specialist and consult for appropriate testing.