Sleep Study

The sleep study, also called polysomnography, is a test used to diagnose sleeping disorders. When a person goes through a sleep study, a proper check is there of brain waves, the oxygen level in the brain, and even heart rate during a sleep period. Even the complete measurement is of movements of parts like eyes and legs. 

The test is mainly performed at night, but for workers who sleep during the daytime, the test is during the day. The complete sleep study process can be achieved even at home; you can use devices with various sensors that will measure all the ratings.

When Is Sleep Study A Must Option?

A sleep study is a diagnostic test performed to discover any of the health issues you are facing. If you are having issues in sleeping patterns, then the test is recommended by doctors to find out the main reason that is responsible for inappropriate sleep. 

The various conditions affect the brain and nervous system. Different conditions that can be diagnosed with sleep study are as follows:

  • Sleep Apnea
  • Narcolepsy
  • Period Limb movement Insomnia
  • Certain types of seizures and epilepsy
  • Night terrors, also called sleeping terrors
  • Nocturnal panic attacks
  • Sleep paralysis

What To Expect:

Before The Date Of The Process

On the date of the sleep study test, you need o follow the complete routine that you generally follow in life. But for the previous days, there are some common facts that you need to consider:

  • Avoid having caffeine and alcohol for at least 8 hours before the test as they negatively impact the overall sleeping pattern.
  • Do not take any naps in between the daytime as it will make it harder for you to sleep during the sleep study.
  • The results of the test will be based on the fact of how much sound sleep you had during that period.

During Polysomnography

Are you having a sleep study in centers? If yes, in that case, you can visit the place in the evening and stay there for a complete night, gathering the entire essentials in the bedtime routine to avoid any issues. Following a proper bedtime schedule is a must to go through the apnea test.

 Firstly just place the sensor on the body and turn it on based on the instructions. Proper facilities will be available for you in the area of the test so that you can have a sound sleep. Even the camera and audio system are available so that doctors can do complete monitoring regarding the acts.

One technologist will place the sensors on the scalp, temples, chest, and lungs once you are ready for bed with the help of glue or tape. 

The connection of the sensor will be there with a computer using the wires; even a small clip is placed on the finger and ears responsible for monitoring the level of oxygen in the blood. During the sleeping period, the technologists monitor the following:

  • Brain waves
  • Eye movements
  • Heart rate
  • Breathing pattern
  • Blood oxygen level
  • Body position
  • Limb movement
  • Snoring and other noises

After Polysomnography

Once the process of the polysomnography is completed in the center, then the removal of the sensor is there. Even an appointment will be given for the follow-up with the health care providers with recommended tests. If you have gone through the home test, you can sometimes keep the equipment safe, while in other cases, you can discard the tools.

Results 

Complete measurement being recorded in the sleep study will help provide detailed information about the sleeping patterns you usually follow. Let's have a look at some genuine examples.

  • Brain waves and eye movements that are taking place during sleep will help in doing the complete assessment by the team; complete disruptions in the stage are possible with these movements. The disruption is mainly due to the various forms of sleeping disorders.
  • Changes in the heart and breathing rate and even the level of oxygen in the blood that was not during sleep may suggest sleep apnea.
  • Frequent leg movements that affect the quality of sleep and even work as an indication that there is periodic limb movement disorder.
  • Using PAP acts as an indication that the setting of the device works best for you.

Final Words

The sleep study is a common diagnostic test that helps understand what complications you might have regarding sleep. You can go for the test after a specific period so that security is there and you are not facing even a single issue.

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