Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects millions of Americans, causing interruptions in breathing during sleep. This condition can place immense strain on the heart, exacerbate symptoms of diabetes, and contribute to other health concerns such as frequent nighttime urination and difficulty concentrating. At Bayhealth, a leading healthcare provider, proactive screening and treatment programs ensure patients receive the care they need to manage sleep apnea effectively.
Bayhealth’s Commitment to Sleep Apnea Screening and Treatment
Why Sleep Apnea Screening Matters
With over 22 million Americans suffering from sleep apnea, early detection and intervention are critical to improving patient health. Bayhealth takes an aggressive approach by screening most patients admitted to their hospitals within 24 hours. This initiative helps identify undiagnosed cases and connects patients to necessary treatment before complications arise.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These interruptions can last from a few seconds to minutes, leading to a drop in oxygen levels. The most common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking while sleeping
- Excessive daytime fatigue and drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- High blood pressure
- Waking up with a dry mouth or headache
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to severe cardiovascular problems, stroke, and an increased risk of metabolic disorders.
Bayhealth’s Screening Process for Sleep Apnea
Meet the Experts Behind the Screening
Bayhealth’s Respiratory Therapy Navigator, Elizabeth Hurley, RRT, AE-C, and Sleep Navigator, Teddy Kruppa, RRT, RPSGT, lead the sleep apnea screening efforts. Their expertise ensures that patients receive accurate assessments and appropriate referrals for further testing and treatment.
The STOP-BANG Assessment: Identifying High-Risk Patients
Bayhealth utilizes the STOP-BANG questionnaire, a widely recognized screening tool for sleep apnea. Patients are asked to answer a series of questions related to their sleep habits, physical attributes, and medical history.
STOP-BANG Assessment Questions:
- Snoring: Do you snore loudly?
- Tiredness: Do you feel tired or fatigued during the day?
- Observed Apnea: Has anyone noticed you stop breathing, choke, or gasp while sleeping?
- Pressure: Do you have or are you being treated for high blood pressure?
- Body Mass Index (BMI): Is your BMI greater than 35?
- Age: Are you 50 years or older?
- Neck Size: Is your neck circumference greater than 17 inches (male) or 16 inches (female)?
- Gender: Are you male? (Males are at a higher risk for sleep apnea.)
Interpreting the STOP-BANG Results
- Low Risk: 0-2 “yes” responses
- Intermediate Risk: 3-4 “yes” responses
- High Risk: 5-8 “yes” responses
Patients identified as intermediate or high-risk are referred for further testing, such as sleep studies.
Next Steps: Diagnosis and Treatment
Comprehensive Sleep Studies at Bayhealth Sleep Centers
For those who require further evaluation, Bayhealth offers sleep studies at six convenient locations throughout Delaware. These studies assess breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and overall sleep quality to confirm a sleep apnea diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
Once diagnosed, Bayhealth provides patients with a range of treatment options, including:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: Ensures steady airflow to keep airways open.
- Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) Machines: Provides variable pressure for improved breathing.
- Oral Appliances: Custom-fitted devices to keep the airway open.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, dietary changes, and positional therapy to improve sleep quality.
Helping Patients Access the Right Equipment
Bayhealth goes the extra mile to assist patients in obtaining the necessary CPAP and BiPAP machines. Many individuals struggle with access to equipment, and Bayhealth’s dedicated team ensures they receive the tools required for better sleep and overall health.
Why Bayhealth’s Approach Stands Out
- Rapid Screening: Most patients are screened within 24 hours of admission.
- Expert Care: Certified sleep specialists provide accurate assessments and treatment plans.
- Convenient Access: Multiple sleep center locations make testing and treatment easy.
- Comprehensive Support: Assistance with insurance approvals and equipment access.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is sleep apnea?
A: Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, leading to poor oxygen intake and disrupted sleep cycles.
Q: How does Bayhealth screen for sleep apnea?
A: Bayhealth uses the STOP-BANG questionnaire to assess patients’ risk levels and refers high-risk individuals for further testing.
Q: What happens if sleep apnea is left untreated?
A: Untreated sleep apnea can lead to heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes complications, and excessive daytime fatigue.
Q: How does CPAP therapy help with sleep apnea?
A: CPAP therapy delivers continuous air pressure to keep airways open, preventing breathing interruptions during sleep.
Q: Where can I get a sleep study in Delaware?
A: Bayhealth has six sleep center locations throughout Delaware for convenient sleep apnea testing and diagnosis.
