Find the Best Sleep Medicine
Near You – Book Now

What a sleep specialist does

A sleep medicine specialist evaluates and treats sleep disorders. Many are chest physicians, neurologists, ENT surgeons, psychiatrists or physicians with additional training or a fellowship in sleep medicine. Poor sleep is increasingly common and is linked to accidents, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, depression and poor concentration.

When to see a sleep specialist

• Loud, habitual snoring with gasping or pauses in breathing at night.
• Excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches or falling asleep while driving.
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep for more than a month.
• Restless legs, leg jerks or an urge to move the legs at night.
• Sleepwalking, night terrors, acting out dreams or frequent nightmares.
• Sudden sleep attacks or muscle weakness with laughter (possible narcolepsy).

Obstructive sleep apnoea

In sleep apnoea, the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, cutting oxygen and fragmenting rest. It is common in people who are overweight, but also occurs in thin people with narrow airways. Untreated, it raises the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. Treatment includes weight loss, positional therapy, a CPAP machine, oral devices or surgery in selected cases.

Tests

The key test is a polysomnography (sleep study), done overnight in a lab or sometimes at home, which records breathing, oxygen, heart rhythm, brain waves and movement. Blood tests such as thyroid profile, hemoglobin, ferritin and vitamin D may be advised, particularly for restless legs and tiredness.

Insomnia and good sleep habits

Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is the first-line treatment and works better long-term than sleeping tablets. Keep fixed sleep and wake times, avoid caffeine after noon, limit screens before bed, keep the bedroom dark and cool, and avoid alcohol close to bedtime.

Fees and choosing

Consultation fees commonly range from about ₹600 to ₹1,800 and may vary; sleep studies and CPAP machines are priced separately and vary by centre. Compare sleep specialists and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.