Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA)
The sleep disordered breathing service primarily investigates and treats patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. Obstructive sleep apnoea occurs when the muscles in the throat relax when you sleep, causing narrowing or a temporary blockage of the throat. It is normal for the airway to narrow occasionally when you sleep, however those with moderate or severe sleep apnoea often experience sleepiness, daytime napping and reduced energy/alertness in the day, and may benefit from treatment.
The service is overseen by the Respiratory Consultants and led by the Respiratory/Sleep Physiologists from the Clinical Measurements department.
Other sleep conditions, including narcolepsy, insomnia, REM sleep disorders and parasomnias, should be referred to the Neurology team.
More on what we do
The Sleep apnoea team provide the following services:
- Home sleep studies
- Home oximetry studies
- Trial of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
- Long-term support of patients registered with the service
Treatments
The service provides CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) treatment for patients with moderate or severe sleep apnoea.
Our team
Respiratory Consultants
- Dr Patel
- Dr Bakere
- Dr Burden
- Dr Whitehead
Respiratory/Sleep Physiology team
- Ian Martin – Lead Respiratory/Sleep Physiologist
The team also includes two Senior Physiologists, a Trainee Physiologist and an Assistant Physiologist.
Where to find us
RD&E Wonford, Barrack Rd, Exeter EX2 5DW
Clinical Measurements (Level 2, Area D)
Please note we are unable to offer a walk-in service
Contact us
You can contact the team on either 1392 402140 or rde-tr.SleepRequests@nhs.net.
Patient leaflets and documents
Helpful websites
Clinics
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm, excluding bank holidays.
Information for healthcare professionals
Referral to Respiratory Medicine
E-Referral Service Selection
- Specialty: Sleep Medicine
- Clinic Type: Sleep Apnoea/Sleep Disordered Breathing
- Service: DRSS-Western-Sleep Medicine-Devon CCG-15N