Several types of doctors can treat sleep disorders. A sleep specialist is a doctor who has special training to understand and treat problems with sleep. Pulmonologists treat breathing problems, like obstructive sleep apnea, which affect sleep. Neurologists focus on the brain and can help with disorders like restless legs syndrome or narcolepsy. Otolaryngologists – also known as ear, nose, and throat doctors – may treat sleep disorders if they involve airway problems that make it hard to breathe while asleep. 

A referral to a sleep specialist usually comes from the individual’s primary care provider (PCP). PCPs treat a range of health issues and can coordinate care with other specialists as needed. A PCP might refer their patient to a sleep specialist for evaluation if they report one or more of the following symptoms: 

• Snoring, choking, or gasping for air while asleep 

• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night 

• Feeling exhausted during the day, even after getting enough sleep 

• Can’t perform everyday tasks due to overwhelming exhaustion 

Common tests for sleep disorders include overnight sleep studies (polysomnography) and home sleep apnea tests. A polysomnography takes place in a medical clinic called a sleep lab. It involves hooking the patient up to different sensors that monitor heart rate, breathing, blood oxygen levels, and brain waves.  

The test that takes place at the patient’s home is similar, but there are no healthcare providers present and it doesn’t include the sensors that monitor brain wave activity. The patient may also be asked to keep a sleep diary to track sleep habits over time or wear an actigraphy device that measures movement to understand sleep cycles. 

Insurance usually pays for sleep tests when ordered by a doctor to check for a sleep disorder. However, it’s important to check with the insurance company first to understand what’s covered and to learn about any steps needed for approval. For example, Medicare Part B only covers sleep studies that take place overnight in a sleep lab and certain devices for treating symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. 

Treatments will vary depending on the type of sleep disorder. Obstructive sleep apnea is often treated with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine or an oral appliance similar to a mouth guard to keep airways open during sleep. Medications may be used for insomnia, restless legs syndrome, or excessive daytime sleepiness. In some cases, surgery is needed to correct airway issues. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing caffeine consumption or sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, may be recommended as part of the treatment plan.  

There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

• Your primary care provider recommends it. 

• Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 

• You need specialized testing or procedures. 

• You want a second opinion.  

It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

You can find a Sleep Doctor in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

Sleep Doctor near New York, NY
Sleep Doctor near Los Angeles, CA
Sleep Doctor near Chicago, IL
Sleep Doctor near Houston, TX
Sleep Doctor near Phoenix, AZ
Sleep Doctor near Philadelphia, PA
Sleep Doctor near Atlanta, GA
Sleep Doctor near Boston, MA
Sleep Doctor near Dallas, TX
Sleep Doctor near San Jose, CA

MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Sleep Doctor search results page. 

Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

• Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 

• Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 

• Family history of disease 

• List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 

• Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  

• List of questions and concerns 

• Your insurance card 

You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

Here are some sample questions: 

• Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 

• What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 

• What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 

• Are there other specialists I need to see? 

• What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Sleep Doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

Central Sleep Apnea
Drowsiness
Insomnia
Irregular Sleep-Wake Syndrome
Narcolepsy
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
REM Behavior Disorder
Restless Legs Syndrome
Sleep Paralysis

Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Sleep Doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

Reviewed on: 11/07/24  

By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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