Thursday, 22 AUGUST 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Despite the installation of machines to treat sleep disorders, the operation of the sleep lab at the Government Doon Medical College (GDMC) hospital has not yet commenced. Notably, sleep labs within the hospital are typically set up to provide treatment for patients with the sleep disorder commonly known as sleep apnea. Informing about the functioning of the sleep lab, the medical superintendent at the GDMC, Dr Anurag Aggarwal informed that the machines required for treating the patients are already in place. He added that the hospital administration has been planning to establish the sleep lab for a considerable period of time, but various factors have caused delays. Nonetheless, the hospital administration has now equipped the lab with the necessary machines and other equipment, he said.
He further informed that although the machines have been installed at the sleep lab, their operations have not commenced yet due to the delayed appointment of a technician or specialised doctor. The proposal to hire a specialised doctor for the sleep lab has been submitted to the concerned authorities. It is anticipated that it will take an additional two to three months for the sleep lab to function properly. The existing delay in the lab’s operation is attributed to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), he said.
Aggarwal further highlighted that various factors including changes in lifestyle, obesity and others, have significantly increased the prevalence of sleep disorders like sleep apnea among individuals. To prevent sleep apnea, he recommended individuals take early precautions, avoid consuming alcohol, caffeine, chocolates and meals just before sleeping. Additionally, he emphasised the importance of sleeping on a proper bed and maintaining conducive sleep hygiene.
It can be recalled that the appointment of a dedicated doctor for the sleep lab would be finalised within 15 days of its establishment and the lab would commence its operations promptly. However, the current situation contradicts these expectations. Additionally, earlier the hospital administration officials had also stated that assessments for sleep disorders in patients would be carried out during nighttime in the sleep lab.
