Sleep Medicine

Sleep medicine focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders, which can significantly affect physical and mental health. These disorders include sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, and other problems that make it difficult to get a restful night’s sleep. Dr. Pareja uses her experience in otorhinolaryngology to treat conditions related to the upper airway that impact sleep quality.

Sleep Disorders Treated

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):

Description: Condition in which the airways become repeatedly blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing.
Symptoms: Loud snoring, pauses in breathing, frequent awakenings, excessive daytime sleepiness.
Treatments: CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy, oral devices, airway surgery (uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, maxillomandibular advancement).

Insomnia:

Description: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Symptoms: Difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, unrefreshing sleep.
Treatments: Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), sleep hygiene, medications.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS):

Description: Uncomfortable sensation in the legs that causes an uncontrollable urge to move them, usually during the night.
Symptoms: Tingling, itching, need to move legs to relieve discomfort.
Treatments: Medications, lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques.

Narcolepsy:

Description: Neurological disorder that affects the control of sleep and wakefulness.
Symptoms: Excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden sleep attacks, cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone).
Treatments: Stimulant medications, behavioral therapy, adjustment of sleep habits.

The Evaluation and Diagnosis Process

Initial Consultation: Dr. Pareja will conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history and sleep-related symptoms. Sleep habits will be discussed and a physical examination will be performed.
Sleep Studies: Depending on the symptoms, Dr. Pareja may recommend a sleep study (polysomnography) that is performed at a sleep center or in the patient’s home. This study monitors various body functions during sleep, including brain activity, eye movements, breathing, blood oxygen levels and muscle movements.
Diagnosis: Based on the results of the evaluation and sleep studies, Dr. Pareja will diagnose the specific sleep disorder and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment Options

Non-Invasive Therapies:

CPAP: Device that provides constant air pressure to keep the airways open during sleep, commonly used to treat sleep apnea.
Oral Devices: Devices that reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airways open.

Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes:

Sleep Hygiene: Strategies to improve sleep habits, such as establishing a regular routine, creating an environment conducive to sleep, and avoiding stimulants before bed.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Techniques to address the patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to insomnia.

Medical treatments:

Medications: Drugs to treat specific sleep disorders, such as insomnia, narcolepsy, and restless legs syndrome.

Surgical interventions:

Airway Surgery: Procedures to remove obstructions in the airways, such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, maxillomandibular advancement, and other specific treatments for sleep apnea.

Benefits of Sleep Medicine

Improved Sleep Quality: Effective treatments that promote deeper, more restful sleep.
Reduction of Daytime Sleepiness: Improvement of energy levels and ability to concentrate during the day.
Improved General Health: Treatment of sleep disorders to prevent long-term health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cognitive problems.
Emotional Wellbeing: Reduction of anxiety and depression related to lack of sleep.

Ideal Candidates for Sleep Medicine Sleep medicine is suitable for anyone who experiences persistent problems with sleep that affect their quality of life. It is especially beneficial for those who suffer from sleep apnea, insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, or any other diagnosed sleep disorder.

Dr. Patricia Pareja is dedicated to providing accurate diagnoses and effective treatments to improve the sleep health of her patients. Her comprehensive and personalized approach ensures that each patient receives the care necessary to achieve a lifelong dream.