DIAGNOSING SLEEP APNEA & SNORING IN RICHLAND

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can only be diagnosed by a physician and after the patient has had a sleep study. There are two types of sleep studies:

1. Polysomnogram (in lab sleep study)
2. Out of Center Sleep Study (Home Sleep Test)

In lab sleep studies are the gold standard but many insurance companies now dictate home sleep test first due to their ease, affordability, and accuracy. Basically, in lab tests have more accurate data and home sleep tests have more natural sleep as you are in your regular environment.

Sleep disorders are frequently found in patients suffering from chronic orofacial pain disorders. Dr. Bloxham screens each patient for potential sleep related breathing disorders that contribute to their pain and works closely with local medical professionals to find effective solutions. He will often recommend that patients see a sleep specialty physician to properly diagnose any disorder and then work collectively to find the appropriate avenue for each individual to treat their Obstructive Sleep Apnea.