Now that I have been diagnosed, will I be seeing a pulmonologist regularly now? Who usually manages sleep apnea and how often do you need to go back to a doctor for it? I didn't really have my regular doctor work it up, it was part of a preop workup I was undergoing for elective surgery when it was found, which is why I ask. Do I stick with the pulmonologist who diagnosed it or can I refer myself to one?  

moonbeamsmom wrote:

Now that I have been diagnosed, will I be seeing a pulmonologist regularly now? Who usually manages sleep apnea and how often do you need to go back to a doctor for it? I didn't really have my regular doctor work it up, it was part of a preop workup I was undergoing for elective surgery when it was found, which is why I ask. Do I stick with the pulmonologist who diagnosed it or can I refer myself to one?  

Moonbeamsmon,

A short answer to your questions.......you and only you will manage your condition.

Having been diagnosed you must now take advice as to the therapy most suited to your condition. A pulmonologist, dealing with sleep is probably your best bet. If you are unhappy with your current pulmonologist you can have your GP refer you to another. Best to stick with a specialist as distinct from your GP.

It is then up to you, after speaking to your specialist, to decide how often you want to see them. In the initial stages of CPAP therapy one would usually see their specialist after, say, 1 month to discuss your progress. If you are having problems with therapy you might want to see him/her monthly, but usually 6/12 months later is time enough. After that you get a feel for how often you need to see them. If symptoms are under control, and you are happy with progress, frequent visits are not required.

Once again, you will decide, as you will manage. After a while you get quite good at it  

Kind regards,

Daniel


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The untreated Sleep Apnoea sufferer died quietly in his sleep.......
Unlike his three passengers who died screaming !!!!!!

(Anon)

That is really a loaded question.  Some folks have their GP in charge, others pulminologist, others a sleep specialist.   The key is to feel comfortable with your treatment and your doc.  If you have trouble with either, look to improve it.  Successful treatment is the key to this, so do what you feel you need to acomplish this.  Its not the Doc, or the type of machine that treats sleep apnea (altho it can make it better) its the treatment that takes care of it.  Whatever way it takes make sure that you stay committed to getting treated.  Its a matter of life and death, literally.

Hi Moonbeamsmom,

I prefer to use doctors who are certified in Sleep Medicine, no matter what their initial specialty it.  Certification shows they have obtained a certain level of understanding and expertise in the area of sleep disturbances.  Here is the link to finding one.

Vicki

Sleep Doctor Certifications


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That which does not kill you makes you stronger-Friedrich Nietzsche
Friedrich must of had apnea.