Sleep doctor’s appointment

Sleep medicine involves the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders. Our goal is to help you achieve better sleep quality, which in turn improves your overall health and well-being.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Risto Vaikjärv

Ear, nose, and throat specialist, Somnologist

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Insomnia: difficulty falling or staying asleep
  • Snoring
  • Sleep apnea: pauses in breathing during sleep, daytime sleepiness
  • Circadian rhythm disorders: disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle that do not follow a normal day-night pattern
  • Sleep-related movement disorders: for example, restless legs syndrome, which causes discomfort and an urge to move before falling asleep.
  • Parasomnias: unusual behaviors during sleep, such as sleep-talking, sleepwalking, and nightmares
  • Disorders of excessive sleepiness (hypersomnias): conditions where a person feels overly sleepy even after getting enough sleep.

Common symptoms

  • Chronic fatigue

    If unexplained and persistent.
  • Daytime fatigue

    Daytime fatigue with no clear cause.
  • Restless legs

    If you feel an unpleasant sensation in your legs in the evening or at night that is relieved by moving them, and it interferes with falling asleep.
  • Sleep disturbances

    Sleep disorders may manifest as difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night or too early, and non-restorative sleep.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring your ID card or another form of identification.
  • Inform your doctor about any chronic conditions, allergies, and medications you are taking (including over-the-counter medicines and supplements).
  • Be ready to discuss your sleep problems in detail: when they started, how often they occur, what the symptoms are, and what makes them better or worse.
  • If possible, keep a sleep diary for 1-2 weeks before your visit. Note your sleep times, awakenings, daytime sleepiness, and any other relevant observations.
  • If your partner has noticed any symptoms while you sleep (e.g., snoring, pauses in breathing), ask them to write them down, record them, or, if possible, come to the appointment with you.

What to expect during your appointment

Consultation

The doctor will ask you detailed questions about your sleep problems, lifestyle, medical history, and any medications you are taking.

Initial diagnosis and treatment plan

The doctor will provide an initial assessment of your sleep disorder and suggest the next steps.

Planning for tests

If necessary, further tests will be scheduled, such as a sleep study or other specific tests.

Treatment recommendations

Depending on the diagnosis, you will receive recommendations for lifestyle changes, behavioral therapy, medication, or other treatments (e.g., CPAP therapy for sleep apnea).

Follow-up

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled if needed to assess how well the treatment is working and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

Payment & Appointment Info

Prices

Tallinn

Special care
Service Price
Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. 20 €
Sleep physician appointment 87 € A visit fee is added to the price.

Everywhere else in Estonia

This service is not available in selected area

This service is only available in Tallinn. You need to select Tallinn to see a price for this service.

Payment methods

Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Outpatient Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can sleep disorders be treated? 

Yes, most sleep disorders can be successfully treated, or their symptoms can be significantly eased, improving both your sleep and overall quality of life.

How long does an appointment take? 

The first appointment with a doctor usually lasts 20 minutes, while an appointment with a nurse can be up to 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments may be shorter.

Do I need to do anything before the appointment? 

We recommend keeping a sleep diary and thinking about your symptoms beforehand.

How quickly can I expect results? 

This depends on the type of sleep disorder and your treatment plan. Some changes can happen quickly, while others require more time and consistency.