Tired of Nudging Your Sleeping Husband To Stop Snoring? w/ Dr. Audrey Wells (Ep. #30)

Unlocking Better Sleep: How Dr. Audrey Wells is Transforming Health with Super Sleep MD

In modern medicine, innovative approaches to patient care are critical. Dr. Audrey Wells, a triple board-certified physician and founder of Super Sleep MD, is at the forefront of this transformation. With a background that spans pediatrics, sleep medicine, and obesity medicine, Dr. Wells is uniquely positioned to address one of the most overlooked aspects of health: sleep.

The Journey to Sleep Medicine

Dr. Wells began her medical journey at the University of Michigan, where she completed her medical degree. She then pursued pediatrics, driven by her passion for advocating for children's health. Her pediatrics training at the University of Michigan, followed by a fellowship in pediatric pulmonology at Washington University in St. Louis, provided her with a robust foundation in treating respiratory conditions. However, it was during her fellowship training that she was exposed to the critical role of sleep in overall health, particularly through her encounters with obstructive sleep apnea in pediatric patients.

Her interest in sleep medicine was further piqued during her work as a Pediatrician, where she frequently encountered patients whose healing processes were hindered by poor sleep. This realization led her to a fellowship in sleep medicine at the University of New Mexico. Her experience in this field highlighted the intricate relationship between sleep and other health conditions, particularly obesity. This prompted Dr. Wells to obtain additional certification in obesity medicine to provide comprehensive care to her patients.

The Importance of Sleep in Overall Health

Dr. Wells emphasizes that sleep, along with diet and exercise, forms the triad of essential health elements. She believes that without good sleep, motivation and drive suffer, making it difficult to focus on other aspects of health. Recognizing the gap in patient education and support, she founded Super Sleep MD. This platform aims to provide education and high-touch support for patients dealing with sleep apnea and insomnia.

Super Sleep MD offers tailored solutions beyond the conventional CPAP treatment. Dr. Wells addresses the low adherence rates to CPAP by providing alternatives and helping patients find the best treatment options suited to their lifestyles. Her approach includes dietary changes and obesity management, offering a holistic path to better health.

Addressing Common Misconceptions and Treatment Challenges

One of the common misconceptions Dr. Wells addresses is that obstructive sleep apnea is solely caused by being overweight. While weight can contribute to sleep apnea, anatomical factors and the neuro-mechanics of breathing also play significant roles. She advocates for alternative treatments like oral appliance therapy, which involves using a custom-made device to keep the airway open during sleep. This treatment is effective for mild to severe cases and provides an option for patients who struggle with CPAP machines.

Dr. Wells also highlights the importance of accurate sleep testing. While home sleep apnea tests are convenient and less expensive, they may not always provide accurate results, especially for women. In-lab sleep studies, though more cumbersome and costly, offer detailed insights through brain wave monitoring, ensuring precise diagnosis and treatment plans.

Dr. Wells brings attention to the gender differences in sleep apnea symptoms and diagnosis. Women often present with symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, and depression rather than the classic snoring and daytime sleepiness seen in men. This can lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. Post-menopause, the risk of obstructive sleep apnea in women evens out with men, underscoring the need for awareness and appropriate testing in women.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

Dr. Wells is a strong proponent of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which she considers the most effective and durable treatment for insomnia. CBT-I focuses on changing thought patterns, attitudes, and beliefs about sleep, promoting healthier sleep behaviors without relying on medication. She emphasizes the importance of identifying the root causes of insomnia, whether they stem from poor sleep habits, stress, or misalignment in chronotype.

The Future of Sleep Tracking and Technology

Dr. Wells also discusses the limitations of current sleep tracking technology. While devices like the Aura ring can track sleep patterns to some extent, they often lack accuracy in determining sleep stages. Despite these limitations, she sees value in these devices for raising awareness about sleep health and anticipates significant advancements in sleep tracking technology in the near future.

Dr. Audrey Wells' holistic approach to sleep medicine, through Super Sleep MD, is making a significant impact on how we understand and treat sleep disorders. By integrating sleep, diet, and exercise, and addressing the unique needs of each patient, she is paving the way for a healthier future. Her commitment to education and patient support ensures that individuals can achieve better sleep and overall well-being, transforming lives one restful night at a time.