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What Is A Sleep Study? |
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This overnight study consists of monitoring sleep stages, heart function, respiration, blood oxygen levels, and leg movements. Sensors and electrodes are attached to the patient's skin and will not interfere with normal body functions. This is a painless procedure. Each patient stays in their own private, comfortably appointed bedroom (see picture of our typical bedrooms).
This test is designed to quantitate sleepiness and to determine the premature occurrence of REM sleep. The test consists of four or five naps at two hour intervals on the day after an adequate night's sleep, usually after the polysomnogram. This test is used to diagnose narcolepsy and various other causes of hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness).
A CPAP polysomnogram is performed following an all-night sleep study that is positive for sleep apnea. As stated above, the patient is monitored in the Sleep Diagnostic Center, the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is applied. The CPAP is a machine that introduces positive pressure through a mask that fits over the nose. Pressures are gradually increased until there are no longer any "apnea" events, and blood oxygen levels are stabilized.
In some cases the doctor may order a Split Night Study. In this case you will be monitored during the first part of the night using the Polysomnogram procedure above. If you meet a criteria established by the doctor or lab during this portion of the night, you will be placed on CPAP for the remainder of the night. This eliminates the need for you to come back for a second night in most cases. Please note: It is not always possible to complete both portions of the test in one night. So don't be discouraged if you need to spend a second night at the lab.
In the presence of certain medical conditions, acid comes back up the esophagus and may cause several awakenings nightly and/or disease of the esophagus. This overnight study determines if the patient is having difficulty keeping stomach contents down while sleeping. During this study, a probe is inserted into the esophagus to measure the pH levels during sleep. This study is done in conjunction with the polysomnogram.
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If you are scheduled for a polysomnogram (sleep test) you will need to be at the Center at your scheduled time. A technician will place several small electrodes, or sensors, at several locations on your body to record leg and chin movements, brain waves, heart rate, airflow, abdominal and chest respiration and blood oxygen levels. The signals are recorded either on paper or on computer (see paper sample on right) and are read be our board certified physicians. The sensors do not cause discomfort or restrict movement. To maintain as natural an environment as possible, you will not normally be allowed to take medication to fall asleep. A technician remains in an observation room throughout the testing process and will wake you around 6:00 a.m. the next morning.
Most testing is performed during the night, but people with extreme daytime drowsiness may also take what is called a multiple sleep latency test. This involves a series of 20 minute tests taken throughout the day. Different types of tests are listed below.
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Putting Sleep Problems To Rest |