Ep168: Nasal Aid: Identifying and Treating Sleep Disorders with Effective Knowledge with Michelle Lovato

OVERVIEW

Sleep is like a hidden disease that can silently affect every aspect of our lives without us even realizing it.

One prevalent belief is that sleeping longer equates to sleeping well. Our guest in this week’s episode, Michelle Lovato from Nasal Aid, often encounters resistance when discussing this topic with friends and family. However, they emphasize the importance of understanding that quality sleep is far more valuable than mere quantity.

Within the sleep field, collaboration between sleep doctors and sleep providers is essential. While they may come from different backgrounds, they work together to identify and treat various sleep disorders effectively. In certain cases, sleep doctors refer insomnia patients to sleep providers for specialized treatment. The knowledge and expertise of sleep providers in identifying different sleep disorders play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes. Patients who seek help from sleep providers experience a smoother navigation within the sleep field. However, it can still pose challenges for both patients and providers alike. The exposure to consumer struggles and experiences in the medical arena has enlightened them about the impact of cultural backgrounds on seeking treatment.

Interestingly, Michelle observes the human tendency to deny needing help or medical attention, even when faced with obvious signs of poor health. They express amusement but also highlight the importance of understanding when outside assistance is necessary. Moving on to some intriguing solutions, the episode explores sleep taping, a method that some people employ to improve their breathing during sleep. However, Michelle cautions against it, as it can be potentially harmful if misinterpreted or misused. Instead, they recommend consulting an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) for precise and effective solutions to nasal congestion. Michelle ponders the relationship between sleep apnea and the belief some individuals have in being night owls. They speculate whether this belief stems from the experience of having sleep apnea and feeling like a bad sleeper. Uncovering how actual sleep patterns and physiology influence attitudes toward sleep is a fascinating avenue for future exploration. Sleep is likened to a hidden disease that can significantly impact one's life without their realization. Unlike most illnesses, monitoring sleep necessitates the involvement of someone else. This unique aspect, coupled with the overwhelming abundance of online information about sleep, adds complexity to finding the best solutions. Michelle acknowledges the challenges one faces when seeking help for sleep-related issues. The options range from reading articles to purchasing products online or consulting a sleep doctor. However, they also shed light on the tendency for sleep doctors to recommend costly therapies like CPAP machines or surgery. Navigating through these options while prioritizing affordability and scientific support can be a daunting task.

Join us in this eye-opening episode as we venture deep into the world of sleep, busting myths, and exploring innovative solutions. Remember, optimal sleep is within your reach! Tune in to Deep Into Sleep podcast!

“It's amusing how some people deny needing help or medical attention, even when the signs of poor health are obvious. We need to embrace interdependence in healthcare and within our community.” - Michelle Lovato

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WHAT WILL WE LEARN

[00:02:04] Sleep apnea led to personal interest.

[00:04:23] OTC device useful for non-CPAP treatments.

[00:07:42] Sleep impacts life but can be confusing.

[00:10:47] Different sleep providers collaborate. Sleep doctors refer patients. Diagnosis requires knowledge of various sleep disorders.

[00:14:04] Challenges in referring patients to different specialties.

[00:17:34] People ask me about sleep taping, don't recommend it, see a doctor.

[00:20:32] Surprising takeaways on wellness and healthcare.

[00:24:13] Sleep apnea may affect beliefs about sleep.

[00:27:32] Challenging to change sleep beliefs, difficult conversations.

[00:29:56] Sleep psychologists help treat various sleep disorders by adjusting cognitive distortions, providing psychoeducation, using psychological tools, and employing exposure therapy. They also educate patients and families to understand symptoms and change perceptions of sleep.

[00:35:55] Sleep varied; improve sleep, hope, informational podcast.