Private Sleep Health services at our Dublin and Galway Clinics
Poor quality sleep has a profoundly negative impact on your overall health and quality of life. A lack of sleep can cause daytime tiredness and an impairment in functioning. Sleep helps your brain and body function on the day to day, and a lack of it can cause fatigue, irritability, decreased energy, and issues with focusing. It is also linked to several chronic health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. Around half of all adults over the age of 65 have some type of sleep disorder.
Sleep Studies (Polysomnography) at Blackrock Health
As part of our respiratory health services, we offer sleep study services to help investigate any issues you may have with sleep. A sleep study monitors your sleep stages and cycles while you are asleep. All studies are done overnight within the clinic and are non-invasive.
Who do we treat?
At Blackrock Health we provide sleep study services to all patients referred by their GP. If you suspect that you may have a sleeping disorder, or you are experiencing troubled sleeping patterns, then you may benefit from a sleep study. If you have trouble sleeping, it is important to visit your GP first, as it may not be a major issue, and there are multiple things you can do to help you sleep at night. You may be asked to keep a sleep diary first, to track when you fall asleep and wake up each day, how many naps you took, how much caffeine you consumed and when you stopped using electronic devices. These are all large contributors to sleep issues. If you are struggling with sleeping and it is affecting your life, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional and you may be referred for a sleep study with us.
What to expect
If you have been referred for a sleep study, you will spend the night in the clinic. You will be admitted on the evening of your study and discharged early the following morning.
During your sleep study, we will monitor and record your sleep activities. This is called a polysomnogram, which electronically transmits and records specific body and brain activities while you sleep. A consultant specialising in sleep disorders medicine will review these activities and report their findings. You will later meet to discuss the report and get a detailed understanding of the quality of your sleep.
Our expert team
Consultant in sleep disorders medicine
Sleep medicine physicians.
Sleep technologists.
Respiratory therapists.
Neurologists.
Psychiatrists.
Psychologists.
Dietitians.
What is monitored during your sleep?
oxygen levels
pulse rate
breathing effort
mouth and nose airflow
snoring
sleep position
movement
brain activity
Our tips for a good nights sleep
Stick to a good sleep schedule- sleep and wake at same time every day.
Avoid using your phone late at night – blue lights make it harder for brain activity to slow down.
Avoid naps in the afternoon.
Avoid caffeine and heavy meals late at night.
Drink herbal teas.
Try Mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
Exercise every evening.
Common types of sleep disorder:
Insomnia:
Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, which involves difficulties falling and staying asleep. It can cause day-to-day issues with work and health. To be diagnosed with insomnia, the symptoms must occur for at least 3 nights, last for at least 3 months, and must also cause obvious problems with your day-to-day life.
Narcolepsy:
Narcolepsy is experiencing extreme sleepiness and suddenly falling asleep during the day. People with narcolepsy may experience sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by joking and laughing, resulting in head bobbing and jaw dropping.
Restless legs syndrome:
Restless leg syndrome involves the sudden urge to move one's legs. It worsens during periods of inactivity; it is relieved by movement, and it is worse at night.
Sleep apnea:
Sleep apnea is an abnormal breathing pattern while you are asleep, such as snoring, snorting, gasping, and breathing pauses. This can be diagnosed with a sleep study; however, lifestyle changes can help to improve it.
Risk factors for poor sleep health
If any of the following applies to you, you may be at risk of poor sleep health:
You experience stress
You have an underlying health condition.
You work late night shifts.
There is a history of sleep disorders within your family.
Accessing our services
You can access Blackrock Health sleep study services easily with a referral letter from your GP and can then expect world-class clinical care and comfort. Over 75% of our hospital rooms are single occupancy, which can help you make a quicker recovery in a safe environment. We aim to provide you with the best possible outcome, and to restore your quality of life.
FAQ's about sleep health
At Blackrock Health private hospitals in Dublin and Galway, we understand that a visit to our sleep health clinic can be a stressful experience.
To help ease your concerns and provide clear information, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions specific to our sleep health services. Our goal is to care for our patients and to make your visit as smooth and reassuring as possible.
Why is sleep important for overall health?
Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being as it allows the body to rest, repair tissues, consolidate memories, regulate mood, and support various physiological processes. Adequate sleep contributes to physical health, cognitive function, emotional stability, and overall quality of life.
How much sleep do I need each night?
The recommended amount of sleep varies depending on age, with adults generally needing 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal health and functioning. However, individual sleep needs may vary, and factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and underlying health conditions can influence sleep duration.
What are the consequences of poor sleep quality or insufficient sleep?
Poor sleep quality or insufficient sleep can have significant consequences on physical health, cognitive function, mood, and daytime performance. Chronic sleep deprivation or sleep disorders may increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, anxiety, impaired concentration, memory problems, and accidents.
How can I improve my sleep quality?
To improve sleep quality, it's essential to establish a regular sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment (with a dark, quiet, and cool room), practice relaxation techniques before bedtime (such as deep breathing or meditation), limit screen time before bed, avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime, and engage in regular physical activity.
When should I see a healthcare provider for sleep problems?
You should consider seeing a healthcare provider if you consistently experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, loud or frequent snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, restless legs or leg movements that disrupt sleep, or other persistent sleep disturbances.
What are the treatment options for sleep disorders?
Treatment for sleep disorders depends on the specific condition and may include lifestyle modifications, behavioral therapies (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia), medication (such as sleep aids or medications for sleep apnea), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for sleep apnea, or other interventions prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Can I improve my sleep hygiene?
Yes, you can improve your sleep hygiene by adopting healthy sleep habits and routines. This includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine before bed, and ensuring your sleep environment is conducive to restful sleep.
Are there natural remedies for improving sleep?
Some natural remedies for improving sleep may include herbal supplements (such as valerian root or chamomile), relaxation techniques (such as progressive muscle relaxation or aromatherapy), and dietary changes (such as consuming foods rich in tryptophan or magnesium).
How do I get a sleep study at Blackrock Health?
You will need a referral letter from your GP or consultant before you make an appointment.
Is a sleep study insured?
Not all services are covered by health insurance. To find out if you're covered, please check your health insurance before your visit. You can do this on our health insurance cover check page, or by contacting your health insurer.
If not, how do I pay?
If you do not have health insurance or your health plan does not cover the full cost, you will need to pay the balance due before your treatment or procedure. You may be able to claim back some fees on your insurance. To pay an excess not covered by your insurance or any other inpatient fees, please visit our payment page. If you have any queries about paying for your care, please contact the finance team in your hospital.
