Sleep Studies for 3rd Shift Workers Now Available at Hanover Hospital's Sleep Center

September 1, 2009 -
Many 3rd shift workers, need a good “day’s” sleep; but, they are as susceptible to a sleep disorder as those who sleep at night. It is called Shift Workers Sleep Disorder (SWSD). Because the body’s natural circadian rhythm is challenged, it is common in people who work non-traditional hours, usually between 10:00 pm and 6 am.

The symptoms of SWSD and resulting disorders are the same as those of nighttime sleepers. The most common are Obstructive Sleep Apnea (a breathing disorder that interrupts sleep several times a day) and Restless Leg Syndrome (a neurological disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move when at rest in an effort to relieve these feelings).

Diagnosing sleep disorders is the same for both nighttime and daytime sleepers—a monitored sleep study. However, the challenge for the daytime sleeper is that they need their study during the day and most studies are only offered at night. The Hanover Hospital Sleep Center now offers these daytime studies.

For information call the Sleep Center at Hanover Hospital at 1-800-673-2426, ext. 2229 or (717) 633-2229 and ask for Wanda Kreiger or e-mail her at: kreigerw@hanoverhospital.org.

The Sleep Center’s staff includes seven Registered Polysomnographic Technologists. These are specifically trained specialists, who have met rigorous requirements to become credentialed by the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists.

Michael H. Ader, M.D. is the Medical Director of the Sleep Lab. He is Board Certified by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He also maintains a private Pulmonology medical practice in Hanover. Dr. Ader is considered a pioneer in sleep studies in the Hanover area.