ABOUT SLEEP STUDIES

A Polysomnogram is a diagnostic procedure that measures certain bodily function during sleep. The following parameters will be monitored during your study.

  • EEG/Brain Waves (Electrodes placed on the scalp)
  • EKG/Heart Rate (Electrodes placed on the chest)
  • EOG/Eye Movements (Electrodes placed above and below eyes)
  • EMG/Muscle Tension (Electrodes placed on the chin)
  • EMG/Muscle Tension (Electrodes placed on both legs)
  • Airflow/Breathing (Sensors attached near nose and mouth)
  • Respiratory Effort (Elastic belts placed around chest and stomach)
  • Oximetry/Blood Oxygen Levels (Small sensor attached to fingernail)
  • Snoring

WHY RECORD ALL THESE THINGS?
During sleep, the body functions are different than while awake. Disrupted sleep can disturb daytime activities and sometimes magnify medical problems during sleep. This may pose a significant risk to your basic health.

HOW CAN I SLEEP WITH ALL THESE THINGS ON ME?
This is a common concern, but most people will maintain their usual sleep patterns. The body sensors are applied so that you may turn and move in your sleep as you normally would. Our staff will try to make your sleeping environment as comfortable as possible. View our facility by clicking here.

WILL THE ELECTRODES/SENSORS HURT?
No! This is a non-invasive procedure meaning that no needles will be involved and the procedure is painless. Occasionally, attaching the electrodes can rub the skin and cause mild and temporary skin irritation. Generally, this does not cause any significant discomfort.

WILL I BE GIVEN A DRUG TO HELP ME SLEEP?
No, we prefer whenever medically possible, that you be off of sleeping medications for at least eight days before your study. Consult your physician regarding the medication you should continue to take prior to your sleep study. It is also important to avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine on the day of your study.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON THE EVENING OF THE STUDY?
After your physician has ordered a sleep study for you, you have entirely filled out the patient questionnaire and you have made an appointment for your sleep study, please arrive on time to the sleep center testing location. A technician will meet you in the lobby to escort you to your room.

The following instructions will help you prepare for your sleep study:

  1. Please fill out the provided questionnaires before your appointment. We realize these take some time, but accurate results are directly dependent upon you filling these out.
  2. Avoid alcohol and caffeine usage for 12 hours prior to your study.
  3. Bring loose fitting pajamas (no silk or rayon) to sleep in. Feel free to bring your own pillow!
  4. Take all your medication as you normally would and please bring them with you.
  5. Try not to take any naps during the day of your study.
  6. Please bathe, shampoo and dry your hair prior to your study. Also avoid skin creams, oils, and hairspray. You may bring these along to put on after we have applied the sensors to you.

Try to make the day of your study as routine as possible (with the above exceptions). Your test will last between six and eight hours. The earlier you can fall asleep the better. This allows us to collect more information, which in turn gives you and your doctor a more accurate sample of your sleep. We generally wake patients up between 5:30 and 7:00 am.

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please do so at least 24 hour in advance. LATE CANCELLATIONS AND NO-SHOWS WILL BE SUBJECT TO A $75.00 RE-SCHEDULING FEE.