Sleep Disorders Center

What Is the Quality of Your Sleep?

At the UConn Health Center, we recognize that good sleep is essential to good health. Accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, UConn’s multidisciplinary Sleep Disorders Center offers state-of-the-art care to evaluate and treat sleep disorders. Only facilities that offer this level of comprehensive care are eligible to receive accreditation.

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.

	Daniel McNally, M.D., is medical director of UConn’s Sleep Disorders Center, which brings together experts from disciplines including pulmonary medicine, psychiatry, dentistry, neurology and ear, nose and throat surgery. 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.
	Care is also provided by Jennifer Papa Kanaan, M.D., who has special interests in treating children, teens and adults with sleep apnea and other sleep disorders.

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 Disorders

• Sleep Apnea – disruption of breathing during sleep
• 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

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

Technical service provided by Sleep Services of America.