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Sleep Medicine

Sleep, a fundamental aspect of human life, plays a critical role in maintaining overall health and well-being. At VAAYU, we are keenly aware of the intricate relationship between respiratory health and the quality of sleep. The importance of sleep medicine cannot be overstated, especially considering the profound impact sleep disorders can have on our health and daily functioning. 

Here are some of the important functions of sleep:

  • Restoration: Sleep helps to repair and restore our bodies. During sleep, our muscles are able to rest and repair, our immune system is strengthened, and our brain is able to consolidate memories and remove toxins.
  • Growth and development: Sleep is essential for growth and development, especially in children and adolescents. During sleep, the body releases growth hormones that help to promote growth and development.
  • Learning and memory: Sleep helps us to consolidate memories and learn new information. When we sleep, our brains are able to process and store information that we have learned during the day.
  • Mood and behavior: Sleep is important for maintaining good mood and behavior. When we are sleep-deprived, we are more likely to experience irritability, anxiety, and depression.
  • Heart health: Sleep is important for heart health. Sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
  • Respiratory Health: There is an intricate link between sleep and respiratory disorders. Conditions like sleep apnea, characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, and can significantly impact respiratory health. Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining proper lung function and supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms against respiratory infections.
  • Weight control: Sleep is important for weight control. Sleep deprivation can lead to weight gain, as it can increase the production of ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and decrease the production of leptin (the satiety hormone)

The need to evaluate sleep disorders:

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the prevalence and impact of sleep disorders on public health. It is estimated that a significant portion of the global population experiences sleep-related problems, some of which include:

  • Insomnia: Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
  • Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): OSA is a sleep disorder characterized by episodes of breathing cessation during sleep.
  • Restless legs syndrome (RLS): RLS is a sleep disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs.
  • Narcolepsy: Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness.
  • Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders: Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders are sleep disorders that are caused by a misalignment between the body's natural sleep-wake cycle and the external environment.

Despite the widespread nature of these disorders, they often remain undiagnosed and untreated. This is particularly concerning because untreated sleep disorders can lead to a cascade of health issues, including daytime fatigue, impaired cognitive function, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. In the realm of respiratory medicine, evaluating sleep disorders becomes even more crucial. Sleep apnea, for instance, is associated with not only disrupted sleep patterns but also increased risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart failure. Identifying sleep disorders in individuals with respiratory conditions can offer targeted interventions that improve both their respiratory health and overall quality of life. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of a sleep disorder, it is important to see a doctor
for evaluation.

There are a variety of treatment options available for sleep disorders, including:

  • Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy is a non-medical treatment for sleep disorders that focuses on changing unhealthy sleep habits.
  • Medication: Medications can be used to treat some sleep disorders, such as insomnia and OSA.
  • Device therapy: Devices such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines can be used to treat OSA.

If you are experiencing a sleep disorder, it is important to seek treatment. Sleep disorders can have a significant impact on your quality of life, and treatment can help you to get the sleep that you need to be healthy and well-rested.

Here are some tips for improving your sleep:

  • Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible, even on weekends.
  • Create a relaxing bedtime routine.
  • Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.
  • Get regular exercise, but avoid exercising too close to bedtime.
  • See a doctor if you are experiencing a sleep disorder.
  • At Vaayu, we look at sleep comprehensively. We have 3 specialties, Pulmonology, ENT and dental to help you fix your sleep. Services we provide are as follows:
  • Diagnostic sleep studies
  • Titration studies
  • Diagnostic sleep endoscopies
  • Positive pressure therapy
  • Surgical correction in selected cases
  • Advanced dental devices
  • Psychological assessment and therapy for insomnia