Most sleep disorders can be readily treated. The exact treatment depends on the disorder and the degree of severity as well as other factors. These factors can vary from person to person. For example, a CPAP breathing-assist device is set to each individual patient's breathing patterns and needs.

Typical treatments include:

• Sleep apnea: Behavioral changes, physical or mechanical therapy (including CPAP, see below), and in some cases, surgery to remove excess or obstructing tissue. Medication has not proven to be effective in most cases.
   
• Restless Legs Syndrome: Behavioral changes and medication.
   
• Narcolepsy: A combination of medication and lifestyle treatments.
   
• Idiopathic hypersomnolence: A combination of medication and lifestyle treatments.
   
• Parasomnias: Lifestyle changes and medication.
   
• Insomnia: Lifestyle changes and medication.
   

CPAP: A treatment for sleep apnea

A very common treatment for sleep apnea is CPAP, a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure device. This consists of a mask, tube and base unit. The base unit forces air through the tube and into a mask. The pressure is set just high enough to keep the throat and airways open during sleep. A technician often helps set up and adjusts the CPAP device in the home.

Each patient uses a pressure which is right for him or her. The exact pressure needed is established during a sleep study at one of our five Center for Sleep Disorder locations in and around Orlando and Central Florida.

More advanced devices are also available that can sense a patient's breathing and increase pressure during breath intake. These BiPAP devices are more expensive but can be worth it for some patients.

Self-regulating devices (AutoPAP) are also available. These can be very helpful in some instances but at present are not generally covered by insurance.

NOTE: Sleep health information discussed at this website is for educational purposes. Each
            individual is different and may have varying symptoms, diagnosis and treatments.
            If you are having sleep health problems, obtain professional medical advice.

©2006, Morris T. Bird, M.D. and Robert S. Thornton, M.D.
Medical Directors of the Center for Sleep Disorders at Florida Hospital
Solving sleep problems, snoring, sleep apnea, insomnia and other sleeping issues in Central Florida.
With six sleep centers at Florida Hospital locations:
   Orlando Main Campus, East Orlando, Altamonte Springs, Celebration, Winter Park and Apopka