CentraState - Healthy Directions

Catching Better Zzz’s When 70-year-old Barry Wagner of Monroe Township visited the Center for Sleep Disorders at CentraState, he never expected to be diagnosed with moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Plagued with polio as a child and post-polio syndrome (PPS) as an adult, Barry had always been prone to fatigue. “For years, I complained about being tired until my polio clinic physician recommended that I undergo a sleep study,” Barry says. “I had heard great things about CentraState’s Center for Sleep Disorders, so I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Krachman [Samuel Krachman, DO, board-certified sleep medicine physician and director of the Center for Sleep Disorders].” Sleep Study Results After meeting with Dr. Krachman, Barry underwent a sleep study and was subsequently diagnosed with OSA. “Because Barry struggled with polio and PPS for years, his respiratory muscles had severely weakened,” Dr. Krachman says. “After we monitored and recorded his brain waves, respiratory function, and leg movements throughout the night, it was apparent that Barry’s airway passage was obstructed. By placing him on a continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP] machine, we were able to prevent breathing disruptions during his sleep cycle. The CPAP machine pumps air into a mask that fits over the nose or mouth and nose of a patient, ensuring effortless oxygen flow.” Although it took him a few months to become accustomed to wearing the CPAP mask, it has now become a part of his nightly routine. “Wearing a CPAP mask can be a little uncomfortable at first, but it helps prevent OSA and resulting medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and pulmonary hypertension,” Dr. Krachman says. “There are also an array of adjustable masks on the market to ensure a patient’s comfort.” Providing Comfort and Care Since using the CPAP, Barry has regained his energy and is feeling better than ever. “I am so thankful to Dr. Krachman and the entire sleep study team at CentraState,” Barry says. “The Center for Sleep Disorders felt more like a five-star hotel than a hospital, and the staff went out of their way to make me feel as comfortable as possible. Today, I’m re-energized and will continue using CPAP as long as it keeps me feeling rested.” The Center for Sleep Disorders is accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) helps prevent breathing disruptions caused by sleep apnea, allowing Barry Wagner a good night’s sleep. To learn more about CentraState’s Center for Sleep Disorders, call (877) NJSLEEP (877-657-5337) or visit www.centrastate.com/sleep. HD

• Cover