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What does a sleep specialist do and when should you see one

A sleep specialist specializes in problems related to sleep, including disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, excessive daytime sleepiness, and other disruptions. You should consult a sleep specialist if you:

• Experience persistent difficulties falling asleep or frequent awakenings at night
• Feel excessive daytime sleepiness that interferes with your activities
• Observe snoring or breathing interruptions during sleep
• Feel tired or have a lack of energy after sleep
• Need to undergo an evaluation for sleep disorders following injuries or illnesses

Consultation with a sleep specialist can help improve the quality of your sleep and overall well-being.

What diagnostic methods does a sleep specialist use

Sleep specialists utilize various diagnostic methods to assess patients' sleep conditions. The main diagnostic methods include:

• Medical history and discussion of your sleep habits and daily life
• Polysomnography (PSG) — which records brain activity, breathing patterns, pulse, and body movements during sleep.
• Use of specific questionnaires to assess sleep quality and symptoms of sleep disorders.
• Monitoring daily sleep patterns with sleep trackers or keeping a sleep diary to understand your habits better.

These methods help the sleep specialist formulate an accurate diagnosis and determine the causes of sleep disturbances.

What treatment methods does a sleep specialist use

The treatment methods that a sleep specialist may utilize can include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) — this method helps change negative habits and thoughts related to sleep.
• Pharmacological treatment — prescribing sedative medications or other drugs to alleviate insomnia symptoms or other sleep disorders.
• Device treatment — for patients with sleep apnea, special devices such as CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) may be recommended to improve breathing during sleep.
• Sleep hygiene education — providing recommendations on improving sleep habits and conditions, including creating a comfortable environment, maintaining a sleep schedule, and avoiding stimulants.

How a consultation with a sleep specialist goes

The consultation with a sleep specialist at the Dobrobut clinic in Kyiv begins with a detailed gathering of medical history. The doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, sleep habits, and lifestyle. After collecting this information, the sleep specialist will conduct an initial assessment and, if necessary, may recommend polysomnography or other studies. Based on the results obtained, an individualized treatment plan will be developed.

What questions can you ask the doctor

During your consultation with the sleep specialist, it is advisable to ask the following questions:

• What is the cause of my sleep issues?
• What diagnostic procedures are necessary for an accurate diagnosis?
• What treatment methods do you recommend?
• How long does treatment typically last?
• What lifestyle changes can improve my sleep quality?
• What are the costs associated with examinations and treatments?

These questions will help you gain clarity about your condition and the importance of treatment for sleep disorders.

Online consultation with a sleep specialist

The "Dobrobut" medical network in Kyiv also offers the possibility of online consultations with a sleep specialist. This is convenient for patients who wish to receive support and advice without leaving home, and for those who may need follow-up consultations while being outside of Ukraine. This format allows you to discuss your symptoms and receive professional assistance comfortably from your home.

If you are facing difficulties with sleep or wish to improve your sleep quality, schedule an appointment with a sleep specialist at the Dobrobut clinic.

You can arrange a consultation through the form on the website or by calling the contact center.