Al Ain hospital opens sleep disorder lab

Al Ain: Doctors hope a newly-opened laboratory will help combat the growing menace of sleep disorder caused by today's hectic lifestyle.

The new facility at Al Ain Hospital is equipped with comfortable beds where people who suffer from the nightmare of not being able to get a good night's sleep can be monitored by doctors hoping to treat their condition.

George Jepson, the hospital's chief executive, has seen a marked increase in the number of people suffering Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in recent years.

He believes the sleep-disturbing condition is caused by the stress of today's lifestyles, but is hopeful his team of experts can bring relief to sufferers.

"We are proud to offer solace to patients who need help," he said.

The sleep clinic will cater to patients suffering from a large variety of sleep disorders — especially OSA — where sufferers find themselves suddenly startled awake by breathing problems.

Monitoring patients

Patients will be invited to spend the night at the clinic, sleeping in one of two beds set up to reflect the sort of bedtime conditions they have at home.

To study the quality of sleep, technologists attach electrodes to the scalp, sides of the head and under the chin, chest and leg. This sleep study monitors brain waves, heart rate and eye movements. A sensor is placed by the nose and mouth for measurement of airflow.

The readings are analysed by a specialist after the patient leaves in the morning, and recommendations forwarded to the patient's doctor.

Sleep deprivation can have a number of debilitating, knock-on effects. Studies suggest common disorders include sleepiness while driving, work related deaths and injuries, depression, heart failure and other deleterious consequences.

Other pathological conditions and disorders commonly experienced by patients include excessive daytime sleepiness, impaired or deteriorating cognitive function, sleeplessness, loud snoring, morning headaches, sexual dysfunction, gastro-oesophageal reflux, personality changes, weight gain, cardiac diseases and congestive heart failure.

However, with the new lab's powers it will be possible to completely alleviate and reverse these symptoms.

Data for treatment

Dr Saber Mashaal, head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine, which is backing the new facility, said: "The sleep studies provide the data necessary to diagnose and treat sleep disorders, including neurological disorders, movement disorders and sleep apnea."