“A rough estimate of over one-fourth of the population could be suffering from any sleep-related problems here, but most of them are not aware of it,” she told the Variety.
Hutchison, who was on-island from Dec. 21 to 31 at the Pacific Sleep Center on Middle Road, said she saw an average of 12 to 14 patients a day who were suffering from sleep-related problems and disorders.
“Patients with sleep disorders were referred by public or private physicians,” Hutchison said.
She will make recommendations based on the data collected from the patients she diagnosed.
“Sleep disorders, like snoring, are serious problems that could lead to several complications if left unattended,” Hutchison said.
Other forms of sleep disorders and problems include sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy (excessive daytime sleepiness and uncontrollable sleep attacks), restless leg syndrome (unpleasant sensations in the limbs that occur at rest or just before sleep), sleep walking, night terrors and gastroesophageal reflux.
“If you are suffering from any of these sleep disorders, you should consult a physician to prevent complications,” Hutchison said.
She said a physician will conduct a thorough interview and evaluation before making a referral to the Pacific Sleep Center.
“As soon as we get a referral, we will ask the patient to spend one night in the sleep diagnostic program where he or she will be attached to sophisticated sensors to monitor the brain, heart and muscle activity for the whole night,” Hutchison said.
The Pacific Sleep Center conducted an open house on Wednesday evening to familiarize the community with the sleep clinic’s facilities and services.
The center is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
For more information, visit the center at Kim’s Building, Gualo Rai, Middle Road, or call 323-7720, fax 323-8741 or e-mail [email protected].
