Dr. Ruth Henchey, MD

Dr. Ruth Henchey, MD is a Sleep Medicine specialist practicing at her clinic in Pensacola, FL, dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Sleep Medicine care. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Her practice focuses on the prevention of long-term health complications from sleep disorders, creating personalized long-term health plans, coordinating necessary screenings, and managing overall wellness through collaboration with pulmonologists, neurologists, and otolaryngologists. She serves all ages, and is currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (850) 448-2749 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Henchey's commitment to patient well-being is rooted in her extensive medical training, including a medical degree from the University of Arizona, residencies in neurology and clinical neurophysiology, and a fellowship in clinical neurophysiology at the University of Florida. She is board-certified in Clinical Neurophysiology, Neurology, and Sleep Medicine by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology. Dr. Henchey's approach to care emphasizes collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to actively participate in their long-term health management. Dr. Ruth Henchey provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Ruth Henchey is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Ruth Henchey can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Ruth Henchey provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Epilepsy: Addressing epilepsy through medication and lifestyle adjustments can improve sleep quality, reducing the risk of daytime sleepiness and associated accidents or injuries, thus emphasizing its importance in preventive healthcare.
• Cerebral Palsy: Early identification of cerebral palsy is vital as it can contribute to sleep problems and other health issues. Addressing these challenges through therapy and support can positively affect long-term well-being and prevent secondary complications.
• Pseudobulbar Affect: If you experience uncontrollable laughing or crying fits that don't match your feelings, it might be pseudobulbar affect; seeking help early can prevent further emotional distress.
• Insomnia: Insomnia, the struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, can be addressed early to prevent long-term health problems like anxiety, depression, and weakened immunity.
• Sleep Related Hypoxemia: Don't underestimate the risk of sleep-related hypoxemia; proactively addressing low oxygen levels during sleep is vital for preventing future health issues.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Addressing MS symptoms proactively can improve sleep quality and overall well-being, preventing the compounding effects of sleep deprivation on the disease's progression and impacting quality of life.
• Vertigo: Vertigo can be a sign of several conditions affecting sleep and overall health. Seeking timely medical attention will improve your sleep and prevent potential health risks.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Preventing long-term nerve damage and pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome starts with recognizing early symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment to avoid sleep disruption and further complications.
• Hydrocephalus: Managing hydrocephalus is essential to maintain a healthy sleep-wake cycle, as untreated hydrocephalus can cause headaches, cognitive changes, and sleep disturbances.
• Sleep Disorders: Addressing sleep disorders proactively through lifestyle changes and medical interventions can significantly reduce your risk of developing chronic conditions.
• Phantom Limb Pain: While not directly a sleep disorder, phantom limb pain can severely affect sleep quality, making early diagnosis and pain management vital steps in preventive care.
• Seizure Disorders: By working closely with your doctor to develop a comprehensive seizure management plan, you can actively prevent future episodes and their associated risks.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Ruth Henchey offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): If you suspect sleep apnea, CPAP therapy could be the solution. It's a non-invasive treatment that screens for and addresses breathing problems during sleep, allowing you to wake up refreshed and healthy.
• EEG (Electroencephalogram): Protecting your sleep health starts with an EEG. This test screens for brainwave patterns linked to sleep disorders, helping us diagnose and treat problems early.
• EMG (Electromyography): An EMG is a simple test that measures your muscle activity during sleep to help detect and prevent the serious health problems linked to sleep disorders.
• ImPACT Testing: ImPACT testing is a valuable tool for early detection of concussion-related sleep disturbances, empowering you to seek timely treatment and improve your long-term sleep health.
• Memory Evaluation: A memory evaluation helps us detect early signs of cognitive decline, often linked to untreated sleep disorders, so you can get the right support and improve your overall well-being.
• Nerve Conduction Studies: Take a proactive step towards better sleep: nerve conduction studies can identify nerve-related issues affecting sleep quality, allowing for timely intervention.
• Sleep Study: Protecting your long-term health starts with a sleep study, a simple procedure that helps diagnose sleep disorders early, leading to effective treatment and improved quality of life.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Sleep Medicine in Florida.

Dr. Ruth Henchey is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By adhering to a personalized medication and lifestyle plan, a patient experienced improved sleep quality, significantly reducing the risk of seizures and promoting a more stable and secure lifestyle.
• By proactively addressing potential sleep issues and developmental concerns, a family was empowered to create a personalized health plan that significantly reduced the risk of complications associated with cerebral palsy. This proactive approach fostered a sense of peace and control over their child's future well-being.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Sleep Medicine care with Dr. Ruth Henchey:

What is a Sleep Medicine specialist?

A sleep medicine specialist is a board-certified doctor who has specialized training in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. They often have backgrounds in pulmonology, neurology, or otolaryngology, allowing them to offer a comprehensive approach to finding the root cause of your sleep problems.

What is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and why is it a health risk?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to a blocked airway. Untreated OSA is a major risk factor for high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Treatment is a critical step in preventing these serious long-term complications.

What happens during a sleep study (polysomnogram)?

During a sleep study, we monitor your brain waves, heart rate, breathing, and body movements overnight. This non-invasive test gives us a complete picture of your sleep patterns, which is the gold standard for accurately diagnosing sleep disorders and creating an effective prevention plan.

What is the connection between depression/anxiety and sleep?

Depression and anxiety can significantly disrupt sleep, and conversely, poor sleep can worsen symptoms of these conditions. Our practice understands this strong bidirectional link and works to treat both the sleep disorder and the mood disorder simultaneously, preventing a negative cycle.

Can lifestyle changes like weight loss help sleep apnea?

Yes, significantly. Excess weight can narrow the airway, and for many patients, even a moderate amount of weight loss can dramatically reduce or even eliminate sleep apnea, preventing the need for other therapies.

Can my child have sleep apnea?

Yes, sleep apnea in children is quite common, often due to enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Prompt diagnosis is crucial, as untreated sleep apnea can impact a child's growth, learning, and behavior. Fortunately, treatment is a vital step in preventing these developmental issues.

My partner says I act out my dreams. Should I be concerned?

While acting out dreams can be concerning, it might be a sign of REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD). A consultation with Dr. Henchey is important, as RBD sometimes precedes other neurological conditions. Fortunately, treatments are available to manage symptoms and ensure safety during sleep.

What is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological sensory disorder causing an overwhelming, uncomfortable urge to move your legs, often in the evening or night. It's not just a muscle cramp, but a sensation that requires movement. Diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing severe sleep disruption and improving your quality of life.

8333 N Davis Hwy
Pensacola FL 32514
Phone: (850) 448-2749

Dr. Ruth Henchey, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1235113275

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Sleep Medicine like Dr. Ruth Henchey are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your sleep medicine about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.