The Sleep Wellness Institute, Inc., Wisconsin'ss largest independent sleep disorders diagnosis and treatment center, now offers a free, online service that allows web users to determine if they are at risk for obstructive sleep apnea.
The screening service is a combination of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Berlin sleep apnea questionnaire, and a body mass index (BMI) calculator.The Epworth helps determine a person'ss
daytime sleepiness level, the Berlin is focused on behaviors that are typical of sleep apnea, and the BMI is based on weight and height. A BMI of 30 or greater is considered one of the
risk factors of sleep apnea.
The interactive screening can be found on the Sleep Wellness Institute'ss website, www.sleepwellandlive.com.
Sleep apnea is a common, yet serious sleep disorder that can lead to or exacerbate other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes, explained Mark Stoiber,
president of the Sleep Wellness Institute. It affects approximately 18 million Americans and is typified by snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, and daytime exhaustion.
The Sleep Wellness Institute is accredited to diagnose and treat both adults and children with sleep disorders by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. It is also one of only a handful
of sleep disorders centers in the country certified by the Academy to train sleep technologists.