Sleep Center at Mary Black

Now featuring DAY TIME studies to accomodate shift workers and people with busy schedules. Our studies are conveniently held in our new, beautiful Amenity Suites.

• Offers Sleep studies 7-nights per week, which means a shorter wait time for an appointment
• 24-hour sleep study preliminary report to the referring physician with an analysis summary so the physician can initiate a plan of care
• Provides all patients with education about sleep disorders and prescribed treatment
• Offers patient friendly accommodations, which includes a private bathroom and shower in our amenity suites
• State of the art digital monitoring
• Patient support group information
• Strives to maintain an excellent relationship between the hospital, referring physician, patients, and sleep technologists to insure quality patient care
• 24-hour contact ability with the sleep technologist to answer any questions or concerns
• Has a highly trained staff of licensed/registered sleep specialists including two Board Certified physicians in Sleep Medicine

Sleepless in South Carolina?

Everyone feels sleepy at times. However, when sleepiness interferes with daily routines and activities, or reduces the ability to function, it is called “problem sleepiness.” A study by the American Sleep Apnea Association and Stanford University Sleep Disorders Clinic & Research Center found that more than 100 million people in the United States don’t get a good night’s sleep on a regular basis.

Almost everyone has had an occasional sleepless night, perhaps due to stress, heartburn, change of work shift or drinking too much caffeine or alcohol. How much sleep is enough varies. Although 7-1/2 hours of sleep is about average, some people do fine on 4 to 5 hours of sleep, while others need 9 to 10 hours a night.

However, lack of sleep that occurs on a regular or frequent basis, often for no apparent reason can affect not only your energy level but your health as well, because sleep helps bolster your immune system so you can fight off viruses and bacteria.

What are the symptoms of problem sleepiness?

Sleep Problems There are several types of sleep problems that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Overview of Sleep Problems Insomnia Sleep Apnea Narcolepsy Restless Legs Syndrome

You have problem sleepiness if:

• You consistently do not get enough sleep, or get poor quality sleep
• Fall asleep while driving
• Struggle to stay awake when inactive, such as when watching TV or reading
• Have difficulty paying attention or concentrating at work, school, or home
• Have performance problems at work or school
• Are often told by others that you are sleepy
• Have difficulty remembering
• Have slowed responses
• Have difficulty controlling your emotions
• Must take naps on most days

Remember the Sleep Center at Mary Black is always available to answer your questions. You can reach us at 864-591-3373.

Tips for a Good Night's Sleep

1. Regular exercise can be an effective sleep aid. It should be done in the morning and strenuous exercise should be avoided three hours before bedtime.
2. Don't take naps in the afternoon or early evening. Get up and walk around. Don't let yourself fall asleep until bedtime.
3. The last heavy meal should be at least two to four hours before sleep.
4. Limit nightime chocolate.
5. Sleep as much as needed to feel refreshed and healthy but not more.
6. A light snack (less than 400 calories) may help sleep. Consider trying milk, eggs, tuna fish, cashews, or cottage cheese.
7. Avoid caffeine in the evenings.