If you’ve been experiencing symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, or gasping for air during sleep, your doctor might recommend a sleep study1 to diagnose sleep apnea2. Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts. A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is a comprehensive test used to diagnose sleep disorders. Here’s what you can expect during this process.
Preparing for the Sleep Study
Before your sleep study, your doctor will provide you with detailed instructions. These may include avoiding caffeine and alcohol on the day of the study, as they can interfere with sleep patterns. It’s also a good idea to wash your hair but avoid using hair products, as these can affect the sensors that will be attached to your scalp.
Pack an overnight bag with comfortable sleepwear, toiletries, and any other items you need for your nighttime routine. Bringing your own pillow can also help you feel more comfortable in the sleep lab. If you take any regular medications, inform your doctor and the sleep center staff ahead of time.
Arriving at the Sleep Center
Sleep studies are usually conducted in a sleep center, which is often part of a hospital or a specialized sleep clinic. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a sleep technologist who will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. You’ll be shown to your private room, which is designed to be as comfortable and home-like as possible, though it may resemble a hotel room more than your bedroom.
The Setup
Once you e ready for bed, the sleep technologist will begin the setup process. This involves attaching various sensors to your body using adhesive patches and belts. These sensors monitor different physiological parameters throughout the night, including3 the folloeing and sometimes more:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG): Measures brain activity.
- Electrooculogram (EOG): Tracks eye movements.
- Electromyogram (EMG): Monitors muscle activity.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records heart rate and rhythm.
- Pulse oximeter: Clips onto a finger to measure blood oxygen levels.
- Respiratory effort belts: Placed around the chest and abdomen to measure breathing effort.
While the array of sensors might seem overwhelming, they are designed to be as non-intrusive as possible to allow you to sleep normally.
During the Study
After the sensors are in place, the sleep technologist will monitor you from a nearby room. The room will be equipped with a video camera and an intercom system, so the technologist can assist you if needed. You’ll be encouraged to sleep as you normally would at home.
The sensors will collect data on your sleep stages, body movements, breathing patterns, heart rate, and oxygen levels. This information is crucial for diagnosing sleep apnea and other sleep disorders. Don’t worry if you have trouble falling asleep initially; even a few hours of sleep can provide enough data for analysis.
The Morning After
In the morning, the technologist will wake you and remove the sensors. You’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions and provide feedback about your experience. You can then go home and resume your normal activities. The data collected will be reviewed by a sleep specialist, who will interpret the results and prepare a report for your referring doctor.
Receiving Your Results
It typically takes at least a couple of weeks4 to receive the results of your sleep study. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and, if sleep apnea or another sleep disorder is diagnosed, will recommend appropriate treatment options. These might include lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP5) therapy, oral appliances, or, in some cases, surgery.
Conclusion
Undergoing a sleep study for sleep apnea might seem daunting, but knowing what to expect can help ease any anxiety. Remember, the goal is to gather accurate data to improve your sleep health and overall well-being. By understanding the process and following your doctor’s recommendations, you e taking an important step towards better sleep and a healthier life.
