A constant cough or a sneeze, an aching back or a lasting headache may lead people to seek out help from health care professionals. But when it comes to one sleepless night after another, many may ignore what could be a symptom of a serious health problem. Disruptive sleep patterns and sleep disorders may cause people to feel lethargic, lose their concentration or even experience lower energy levels. Whether it’s sleep apnea, or insomia, treatment options are available. Starting on September 8, 2004, residents in East El Paso can seek help closer to home.

The Providence Eastside Center, located at 2400 Trawood, will be hosting an open house on September 8 to celebrate its new sleep lab. This sleep lab will offer the same services that are available at Providence Memorial Hospital and Sierra Medical Center. Using advanced technology and treatment techniques, the Sleep Disorders centers may be able to help patients of all ages.

Technologists work closely with doctors specially trained in sleep disorders medicine to help evaluate sleep patterns and diagnose the problem. In some cases, you may be scheduled for extensive testing which may involve an overnight stay.

For information on sleep disorders, please call the Sierra Providence Health Network Consumer Information Line at 577-6000.