If you are one of the millions of Americans who toss and turn at night or have other symptoms of sleep disorders, you may need expert help.

"Adequate sleep is essential to physical and emotional well-being," says Morris Chang, M.D., Medical Director of the Sleep Disorder Center at Auburn Regional Medical Center (ARMC). "Yet many people don't talk with their doctors about sleep problems or don't realize they can get help at a comprehensive sleep center."

While many sleep labs focus on diagnosing a common sleep disorder called sleep apnea, specialists at the Sleep Disorder Center at ARMC can diagnose and treat 84 different sleep disorders.

What to Expect
Our highly skilled staff of sleep disorder professionals will evaluate your sleep habits, symptoms, medical history and current conditions. They may suggest that you undergo a painless sleep study in a comfortable, home-like bedroom.

Morris Chang, M.D.

During the study, staff members will use advanced technology to monitor your breathing, sleep stages, heart rate, muscle activity and oxygen levels while you sleep. A physician board certifi ed in sleep medicine will interpret your results and provide a thorough evaluation to your referring physician.

"Our efforts don't end when we diagnose sleep disorders," Dr. Chang says. "We provide long-term follow-up care as needed. We recommend devices, medications and behavioral changes that help improve patients' sleep. We also help those whose sleep problems affect their ability to work."

The Sleep Disorder Center -- one of the oldest and most established sleep facilities in the area -- is fully accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

For more information about the Sleep Disorder Center, please call 253-804-2809.

Common Sleep Disorders
Sleep specialists at the Sleep Disorder Center at ARMC diagnose and treat a variety of sleep disorders, including:

• Insomnia – Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or waking too early.
• Sleep apnea – Shallow breathing or breathing disruptions for brief periods during the night.
• Narcolepsy – Falling asleep unexpectedly or at inappropriate times, losing control of the muscles during emotional situations or temporary paralysis when falling asleep or waking up.
• Restless legs syndrome (RLS) – A crawling or tingling sensation in the legs and feet and an irresistible urge to move the legs to temporarily relieve discomfort.