Patients to benefit from sleep lab

SLEEP disorder specialists yesterday said that a new Sheffield laboratory that aims to help people suffering from debilitating conditions is the first of its kind in the country outside London.

By The Newsroom

Published 8th Jul 2011, 10:42 BST

The lab, at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital is designed to look like a typical bedroom with a bed, duvet and bedside table to ensure patients are relaxed.

But they are observed by neuroscience consultants using specialist equipment which measures the breathing, muscles and oxygen brainwave activity of individuals struggling to sleep soundly.

The progress has been made possible by city-based charity Neurocare, which received a £22,000 donation from Sheffield healthcare firm Westfield towards the lab.

Neurocare chief executive Patricia Mitchell said: “There are very few sleep laboratories and Neurocare is bringing new technology to Sheffield, helping keep our neurosciences department at the forefront of expertise.”

“We are delighted that our plans have come to fruition and hope more people receive speedy diagnosis and treatment in future.”

The unit will treat people with conditions such as sleep apnoea and insomnia.