What is a sleep Study?
A sleep study, or Polysomnogram, is an overnight recording of sleep pattern and behaviors associated with sleep. It is necessary to determine what stages of sleep an individual achieves and whether any sleep-related abnormalities are present. A variety of sensors are applied with paste or tape to the body’s surface to record brain waves, eye movements, muscle tone, body movements, heart rate, and breathing. During the study, every attempt is made to allow for a normal night’s sleep. The sleep laboratory has a homey, bedroom-like atmosphere with a television/VCR. A trained sleep technologist explains all of the recording sensors during application. Following the sleep study, an accredited sleep specialist interprets the recording. The findings are integrated with your sleep history to determine a diagnosis and to make treatment recommendations.
Polysomnogram (PSG)
The diagnosis of many sleep disorders requires that you sleep overnight in the laboratory. A polysomnogram, or PSG, is an overnight test that measures your sleep patterns. The technologist is specially trained to operate the sleep diagnostic equipment and remains all night in an adjacent control room. An intercom system is installed in each sleep room so you and the technologist may communicate.
Split Night Study
As during the polysomnogram (PSG), sensors that measure brain waves, eye movements, muscle tone, breathing patterns and blood oxygen levels are applied to your skin using paste and tape. Once you are asleep in your private room, the technologist carefully monitors the sleep diagnostic equipment for any sign of disrupted breathing during sleep. If interruptions in your breathing (known as sleep apnea) are seen, the technologist will apply CPAP during the second half of the test. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure and is the most effective and widely used method of treating sleep apnea. The CPAP device does not breathe for you. You can breathe at a normal rate.
MSLT
Some people experience excessive daytime sleepiness or fall asleep at inappropriate times. If you suffer from these symptoms your physician may send you to the sleep disorders center for the MSLT. The MSLT, or Multiple Sleep Latency Test, consists of five scheduled “nap” recordings during which you will be allowed to sleep for a brief period. The MSLT is conducted on the day following an overnight polysomnogram (PSG). During the PSG, sensors are applied to your skin with paste and tape to measure brain waves, eye movements, muscle tone, breathing patterns, and blood oxygen levels. During the naps, the technologist will monitor your sleep/wake patterns. Generally, the last nap is completed before 7:00 p.m
CPAP Titration Study
If you’ve had a previous polysomnogram (PSG) and have been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea (OSA), your physician may have you return to the Sleep Disorders Center for a sleep study with CPAP. Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by interruptions in breathing. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure and is the most effective and widely used method of treating sleep apnea. The CPAP does not breathe for you. At the start of a CPAP study, sensors will once again be applied to your skin and the technologist will monitor your brain waves, eye movements, muscle tone, breathing patterns, and blood oxygen levels using special diagnostic sleep equipment. Before you fall asleep the technologist will fit you with the CPAP device.
CPAP
CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. While you sleep, this system gently delivers air into your airway through a specially designed mask that fits over your nose and mouth. This creates enough pressure to keep the airway open and produce immediate relief from sleep apnea and snoring. The CPAP device does not breathe for you; instead, you will breathe at a normal rate.