Sleep Disorders Center

At the UConn Health Center, we recognize that good sleep is essential to good health. UConn’s multidisciplinary Sleep Disorders Center offers state-of-the-art care to evaluate and treat sleep disorders in adults and children.

Patients receive a comprehensive sleep evaluation with diagnostic equipment in a restful atmosphere. Referring physicians receive a timely interpretation and recommendation, with options, for treatment.

Common Sleep Disorders

• Insomnia – difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Restless Leg Syndrome – burning or crawling sensation in the legs
• Narcolepsy – “sleep attacks” that can occur at any time
• Sleep Disorders in Children
• Sleepwalking – walking while asleep
• Night Terrors – awakening from sleep in a terrified state
• Difficulty Falling Asleep
• Sleep Apnea – disruption of breathing during sleep

Types of Sleep Studies

Polysomnograms (nPSG)
A nocturnal sleep study, or polysomnogram, is a recording that measures various physiologic parameters used to identify sleep stages and possible sleep disorders. The activities recorded during sleep include brain waves (EEG), eye movements, muscle activity (EMG), heart rate, snoring, among others. The application of small electrodes and sensors are used to record this information into a computer for later analysis. Generally, patients arrive approximately 2 hours before their “usual” bedtime to prepare for their study. Testing usually lasts from 8 to 10 hours.

Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
Patients may undergo an additional test called a MSLT. This test is generally performed in the morning after a full night polysomnogram. This means that patients will need to remain at the center for most of the next day. This test consists of a series of brief naps at 2-hour intervals. The MSLT is designed to evaluate the degree of daytime sleepiness and fatigue in subjects referred to the center.

Titration Studies (CPAP/Bi-Level)
Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) is the most commonly utilized treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. A standard CPAP unit delivers a constant flow of air during inspiration and expiration through a small nasal mask. Some patients may not tolerate standard CPAP and may benefit from a bi-level sleep study. Bi-level units often improve compliance because of the reduced pressure used during expiration.

Common Sleep Disorder Symptoms

• Loud snoring
• Choking or gasping for breath while sleeping
• Inability to fall asleep
• Inability to stay asleep
• Bad dreams
• Excessive movements during sleep
• Fear or anxiety about sleeping
• Sleepwalking
• Morning headaches
• Drowsy driving
• High blood pressure
• Recent weight gain
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Falling asleep at inappropriate times
• Memory or learning problems
• Mood swings

Our Team

	Daniel McNally, M.D., is medical director of the Sleep Disorders Center. He is a graduate of the UConn School of Medicine. Dr. McNally completed his residency at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center and a fellowship in pulmonary medicine at the UConn Health Center. Dr. McNally is a diplomat of the American Board of Sleep Medicine and is board-certified in sleep medicine, internal medicine, pulmonary diseases and critical care medicine.
	Debapriya Datta, M.D., F.C.C.P., is a graduate of Maulana Azad Medical College. Dr. Datta completed her internal medicine residency and fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at the UConn School of Medicine. She is the director of the Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPExT) Program. Dr. Datta is board-certified in critical care medicine, internal medicine, pulmonary medicine, and sleep medicine.
	Jennifer Papa Kanaan, M.D., an expert in sleep disorders in women, children and teens, is a graduate of the UConn School of Medicine. She completed a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care at the Tufts-New England Medical Center. Dr. Kanaan did her residency and internship training at Rhode Island Hospital through the Brown University School of Medicine. Dr. Kanaan is board-certified in pulmonary diseases and critical care, and internal medicine.
	Mark Metersky, M.D., is a graduate of the New York University School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Boston City Hospital and a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at the University of California San Diego.