Hamden (203) 288-8300 Branford (203) 643-0620 Milford (203) 301-4349 Norwalk (203) 939-9688 Greenwich (203) 939-9688
Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions, Answered

Find clear, straightforward answers about sleep disorders, our services, what to expect during your visit, and how we can help you get back to truly restful sleep.

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About Our Center

We are a full-service, AASM-accredited sleep disorders center specializing in the evaluation and treatment of a full range of sleep disorders in adults and children (age 7 and older). We operate five convenient locations across Connecticut — in Hamden, Branford, Milford, Norwalk, and Greenwich.

AASM (American Academy of Sleep Medicine) accreditation means our center has been independently evaluated and meets the highest national standards for sleep medicine care — including physician qualifications, testing equipment, patient care protocols, and follow-up procedures. Fewer than 10% of sleep centers achieve this distinction.

Yes. We provide comprehensive sleep evaluations and treatment for children age 7 and older. Pediatric sleep disorders — including sleep apnea, insomnia, and parasomnias — can significantly affect a child's development, behavior, and school performance. Our specialists are experienced in working with young patients and their families.

In most cases, a physician referral is helpful and may be required by your insurance plan. We recommend checking your insurance requirements, and we're happy to assist in coordinating your referral. Contact us and our team will guide you through the process.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) — the most common form — occurs when throat muscles relax and block your airway. Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain doesn't send proper signals to breathing muscles. Left untreated, sleep apnea increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Common symptoms include: loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep (often reported by a partner), waking with a headache or dry mouth, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and frequent nighttime urination. However, many people with sleep apnea don't snore at all. The STOP-BANG questionnaire is a free, quick way to assess your risk.

Sleep apnea is diagnosed through a sleep study. This can be done in two ways: an in-lab polysomnography (PSG) — an overnight study in our accredited sleep center — or a home sleep test (HST) for qualifying patients. Both monitor your breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep stages to detect and measure apnea events.

CPAP is the most effective treatment for moderate-to-severe OSA. However, depending on the severity and cause of your apnea, other options may include oral appliance therapy (a mouthguard worn at night), positional therapy, weight management, and in some cases surgical intervention. Our physicians will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your individual evaluation.

Insomnia & CBT-I Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold-standard first-line treatment for chronic insomnia, recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine over sleep medications. It works by identifying and changing thoughts and behaviors that interfere with sleep. CBT-I includes techniques like sleep restriction, stimulus control, relaxation training, and cognitive restructuring — and produces lasting results without medication side effects.

Most patients see significant improvement in 4–8 sessions with our board-certified sleep psychologist. The number of sessions depends on the severity and duration of your insomnia, as well as how consistently you apply the techniques between appointments. Many patients report better sleep within the first two weeks of treatment.

According to multiple large clinical studies, CBT-I produces better long-term outcomes than sleep medications and without the risk of dependence, withdrawal, or side effects. While medications may help in the short term, CBT-I addresses the underlying causes of insomnia and equips patients with lasting skills they can use throughout their life.

We treat all presentations of chronic insomnia, including difficulty falling asleep (sleep-onset insomnia), difficulty staying asleep (sleep-maintenance insomnia), and early morning awakening. We also address insomnia that co-occurs with anxiety, depression, pain conditions, or other medical issues.

CPAP Therapy

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is the most effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. A CPAP machine delivers a steady stream of pressurized air through a mask worn during sleep, keeping your airway open and preventing the breathing interruptions caused by sleep apnea. Most patients feel dramatically better within the first few nights of effective CPAP use.

CPAP intolerance is common and very treatable. We offer a specialized PAP-NAP desensitization program — a daytime, in-office session where we work with you at your own pace to gradually acclimate to the mask, pressure, and sensation of CPAP. Many patients who felt they could "never" use CPAP become successful and comfortable users after a PAP-NAP session.

Modern CPAP devices track and store data on your usage, mask seal, apnea events, and pressure performance. Our CPAP Clinic reviews this data at follow-up visits and makes adjustments as needed. Signs that therapy is working include reduced snoring, less daytime sleepiness, better mood, and improved concentration. If you're still symptomatic, our team will troubleshoot your setup.

Most major insurance plans, including Medicare, cover CPAP equipment and supplies when sleep apnea has been diagnosed through a covered sleep study and compliance requirements are met. Our billing team will work with your insurer to verify benefits and obtain authorizations. Contact us for specific questions about your plan.

Regular cleaning keeps your CPAP working effectively and prevents bacteria buildup. Follow this simple schedule:

Daily Cleaning
  • Wipe mask cushion with mild soap and water or CPAP wipes
  • Empty and rinse humidifier chamber
Weekly Cleaning
  • Wash mask, tubing, and humidifier chamber in warm water with mild dish soap
  • Rinse thoroughly and air dry away from direct sunlight
Monthly
  • Replace disposable filters (every 2 weeks if foam filter)
  • Inspect mask cushion for wear and tear
Important: Never use bleach, alcohol, or harsh cleaners. Avoid dishwashers unless your manufacturer explicitly allows it. Let all parts dry completely before reassembling.

Setting up myAir is simple — no Bluetooth pairing needed! The connection happens automatically through ResMed's cellular system.

Step-by-Step Setup
  1. Download the app — Search "myAir by ResMed" on App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android)
  2. Create your account — Use the SAME email address you gave your sleep provider
  3. No pairing needed! — AirSense 10/11 devices connect automatically via built-in cellular modem
  4. Use your CPAP normally — Data appears in the app within a few hours
  5. Check your score daily — View usage hours, mask seal, and apnea events
Troubleshooting: If not syncing within 24 hours, check that Airplane Mode is OFF, verify cellular signal bars on your device screen, and confirm you used the correct email. Call your DME provider if issues persist.

Your Home Sleep Test (HST) is designed to be simple and comfortable. Follow these steps for accurate results:

  1. Prep your bedroom — Keep it dark, quiet, and cool. Remove any lotions or oils from your skin.
  2. Apply the nasal cannula — Place the prongs just inside your nostrils; loop tubing over your ears.
  3. Position the chest belt — Wrap snugly around your upper chest (not too tight).
  4. Attach the pulse oximeter — Clip onto your index finger (avoid nail polish).
  5. Turn on the device — Press the power button; confirm lights indicate recording.
  6. Go to sleep normally — Try to sleep at your usual bedtime.
  7. Return the device — Bring it back to our office as instructed the next morning.

CPAP supplies wear out at different rates. Here's the standard replacement schedule used by Medicare and most insurance plans:

Every 1 month
Mask cushions / nasal pillows (these wear out fastest → leaks, skin irritation)
Every 3 months
Full mask frame, CPAP tubing, Disposable filters
Every 6 months
Headgear (stretches over time), Chin strap, Heated tubing
Every 6–12 months
Humidifier water chamber
Replace sooner if you notice: Air leaks, cracks or stiffness, skin irritation, or bad odor even after cleaning.
Insurance note: Medicare and most private insurers follow this schedule as long as you have proof of regular CPAP use (4+ hours per night, 70% of nights). We can help coordinate your resupply orders.
Sleep Test Repeat Policy

Generally, insurance plans cover repeat sleep testing every 5 years unless you have a major medical condition requiring re-evaluation, such as:

  • Significant weight change (gain or loss of 10%+ body weight)
  • New cardiac or respiratory diagnosis
  • Persistent symptoms despite treatment

Please check with your medical provider to determine if re-testing is appropriate for your situation.

CPAP Device Replacement

The typical useful life of a CPAP machine is 5 years. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, will cover a new device every 5 years with proof of continued need and compliance.

  • Your existing CPAP may last longer than 5 years with proper care
  • Newer models offer better data tracking, quieter operation, and advanced features
  • Talk to your sleep provider about whether an upgrade is medically appropriate for you
Your Visit

Your initial consultation is a thorough review of your sleep history, symptoms, medical background, and any relevant records. Your physician will explain your options, order appropriate testing, and answer all your questions. Please bring a list of current medications and any sleep diaries or records you may have. The appointment typically takes 45–60 minutes.

An in-lab polysomnography (PSG) is performed overnight in one of our private, comfortable sleep suites. A registered technician (RPSGT) applies small sensors to monitor your brain waves, heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, and body movements. You are monitored throughout the night and can use the restroom freely. Most patients find the experience more comfortable than expected, and you typically go home the next morning after the technician removes the sensors.

We recommend bringing: comfortable sleepwear (two-piece pajamas work best for sensor placement), toiletries you'd normally use before bed, any medications you take at night, and a book or something to relax with before sleep. Avoid caffeine after 2 PM on study day and do not apply lotions, oils, or hair products, as these can interfere with sensor adhesion.

Your sleep study data is analyzed and interpreted by one of our board-certified physicians. Most patients receive their results and a follow-up appointment within 5–10 business days of their study. We will contact you to schedule a results consultation and discuss your personalized treatment plan.

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Find Us

Our 5 Locations

Hamden
2447 Whitney Ave, Suite 202, CT 06518
(203) 288-8300
Milford
174 Cherry Street, CT 06460
(203) 301-4349
Branford
14 Business Park Drive, CT 06405
(203) 643-0620
Norwalk
83 East Ave, Suite 300, CT 06851
(203) 939-9688
Greenwich
81 Holly Hill Lane, 3rd Floor, CT 06830
(203) 939-9688