Sleep Disorders

Sleep Disorders

Introduction: Why Sleep Needs a Functional Medicine Approach

Chronic sleep disorders affect 1 in 3 Americans, yet most treatments only mask symptoms. At Patients Medical in New York City, we go beyond sleeping pills. Our integrative sleep medicine uncovers and treats the biological roots of:

✔ Insomnia (trouble falling/staying asleep)
✔ Sleep apnea (breathing interruptions)
✔ Restless leg syndrome
✔ Circadian rhythm disorders
✔ Unexplained fatigue

We don’t just prescribe—we restore natural sleep architecture.

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Root Causes: Why Can’t You Sleep?

Functional medicine identifies hidden triggers:

  • HPA axis dysfunction (cortisol imbalances)
  • Neurotransmitter deficiencies (low GABA, serotonin)
  • Gut-brain axis disruption (microbiome imbalances)
  • Hormonal imbalances (thyroid, melatonin, sex hormones)
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction (cellular energy depletion)
  • Toxin overload (heavy metals, mold)
  • Nutrient deficiencies (magnesium, B6, zinc)

Advanced Sleep Diagnostics

We use cutting-edge testing:

Sleep Study (Home/Clinic) – Assesses apnea, limb movements

Cortisol & Melatonin Rhythm Testing – 4-point saliva/hormone panels

Neurotransmitter Analysis – Urinary GABA, serotonin, dopamine

Micronutrient Testing – Magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin D

Genetic Testing – COMT, MTHFR variants affecting sleep

Gut Health Panel – Checks microbiome and leaky gut

Integrative Sleep Treatments

Circadian Rhythm Reset

  • Light therapy protocols
  • Melatonin timing strategies
  • Sleep hygiene optimization

Nutritional Therapy

  • Sleep-supportive diets (tryptophan-rich foods, low-glycemic)
  • Targeted magnesium/electrolyte balancing
  • Caffeine detox plans

IV & Nutraceutical Therapy

  • IV Magnesium/Glutathione (calms nervous system)
  • Liposomal GABA/5-HTP (boosts relaxation neurotransmitters)
  • Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola for stress)

Sleep Apnea Alternatives

  • Oral appliance therapy (non-CPAP option)
  • Myofunctional therapy (tongue exercises)
  • Nasal valve support

Brain Retraining

  • Neurofeedback (trains brainwaves for deep sleep)
  • PEMF therapy (regulates nervous system)

Gut-Brain Repair

  • Probiotic protocols
  • Leaky gut healing programs

Case Study: David’s Sleep Transformation

David, 47, suffered from 3am wake-ups and exhaustion despite 8 hours in bed. Testing revealed high nighttime cortisol, low magnesium, and gut dysbiosis.

3-Month Protocol:
✔ Cortisol-balancing herbs
✔ Magnesium IVs (weekly for 1 month)
✔ Microbiome reset diet
✔ Blue light blocking after 7pm

Results:

  • Fell asleep 50% faster
  • Zero nighttime awakenings
  • Daytime energy restored

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes—most patients reduce or eliminate sleep medications by addressing root causes like nutrient deficiencies, gut health, and cortisol rhythms.

Absolutely. We offer oral appliances, myofunctional therapy, and airway optimization as alternatives.

Many diagnostic tests qualify for coverage. We provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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