Free sleep apnea screenings
By: Kimberly Rusley
Updated: March 7, 2013
Sleep apnea can be dangerous if untreated, and if you have problems sleeping now is the time to get screened.
This week is National Sleep Awareness Week.
At the Healthplex Family Clinic in southeast Shreveport, you can get screened for free until Friday, March 6.
Sleep apnea is a disorder where your airways close when you sleep.
Doctors say it's important to be screened, so you can avoid complications.
"It's a very serious disorder, because if it's severe it can lead to heart failure, strokes, diabetes, it worsens hypertension," says Dr. Mary Beth Valiulis.
Symptoms include loud snoring, being tired in the daytime, gasping or choking when you wake up.
Twenty people have already undergone screenings.
Doctors will evaluate your weight, height and they'll measure your neck and chin as part of the screening. You'll also fill out a sleep apnea questionnaire.
If doctors think you're at risk for the disorder, you can go on for further testing. They can send you home with a sleep test kit, or you can sleep at their facility for testing.
Healthplex Family Clinic is located at 9425 Healthplex Drive in Shreveport.
