A sleep study, or polysomnography, monitors your breathing, heart rate, body movements, and brain waves while you sleep. It takes place in a specialized environment where a trained sleep technologist ensures your safety and comfort while observing these parameters.
Your doctor will evaluate your sleep issues and may recommend a sleep study for further testing. This helps accurately diagnose any sleep disorders you may have.
On the day of the study, you will arrive at the sleep center in the evening to stay overnight. It is important to prepare for your sleep study by knowing what to do during the day and what to bring for your stay.
At the beginning of the procedure, a technologist will attach wires with a special adhesive to your head, chin, chest, and legs. You will also wear soft bands on your chest and abdomen and an oxygen monitor on your finger. Some centers might use a microphone to detect snoring and have additional audio/video equipment.
As you fall asleep, the technologist will monitor your sleep patterns via computer. If you have trouble sleeping, medication might be used to help. Depending on the study ordered by your doctor, a mask delivering pressurized air might be used as part of the treatment.
The technologist may wake you during the night to adjust your position or to fix any loose wires. In the morning, they will help remove the devices. A board-certified sleep medicine physician reviews the results to make a diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. The test is not painful, though the wires may feel uncomfortable. The technologist might ask you to sleep on your back. Inform them if this is difficult for you.
2. Most people manage to sleep during the study. Medication can help if needed.
3. A family member or friend can accompany you but not stay overnight.
4. You may use the restroom, with the technologist disconnecting the wires.
5. Bring any nighttime medications and inform the technologist before taking them.
6. You are generally required to sleep in a bed, as sleeping in a recliner could affect results.
7. Many centers do not have TVs, and you will need to turn off any electronics before sleeping.
8. The beds are generally comfortable, with some centers offering memory foam or hospital beds.
9. If you cannot tolerate the mask, adjustments or continuing without it may be possible.
10. You will discuss the test results with your doctor in a follow-up appointment.
Sleep Medicine Consultants is committed to diagnosing and treating all types of sleep disorders with precision and care. Our team of expert sleep technologists and board-certified sleep medicine physicians offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address your specific sleep needs. We provide a comfortable and secure environment for sleep studies, ensuring the most accurate and effective solutions to help you achieve restful and restorative sleep. Whether you’re experiencing issues with insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or any other sleep disorder, Sleep Medicine Consultants is here to guide you towards better sleep health.
Source: sleepeducation.org…