What do they hook up to you for a sleep study?

During the study, the belts and sensors attached to you will enable the sleep technicians to monitor you and record all channels of information. This information assists them in preparing a report for your doctor so they can then determine if you do have a sleep disorder diagnosis or not.

Do they wake you up during a sleep study?

The study will likely be videotaped to corroborate your physical movements with information from the sensors. When you are asleep, the technician may wake you up with instructions specific to the study, or to request a change in sleep position.

Is sleep Study painful?

The test is non-invasive and not painful. The sleep lab environment is dark and quiet, and conducive for sleeping. However, the presence of the wires and electrodes occasionally affect the sleep of some patients.

How long do you need to sleep for a sleep study?

Nearly everyone falls asleep during a sleep study. In most cases, you do not need a full eight hours of sleep for the doctor to make a diagnosis. Occasionally, you may be prescribed medication to help you sleep during the study. In the morning, the technologist will test and then remove the sensors.

Can you use your phone during a sleep study?

You can bring your cell phone, laptop, magazines or books with you. It is also important that you do not have caffeine after lunch on the day of your sleep study.

Can I sleep on my side during a sleep study?

If you have only been sleeping on your side during the study, the technician may come into the room at some point and ask you to try to sleep on your back. If you never sleep on your back or can’t sleep in that position, we will not require it for this study.

Can someone stay with you during a sleep study?

NO, only in special cases can you bring another person to the sleep center with you. Children and patients requiring an around-the-clock caregiver MUST have some one stay with them. If needed, the sleep center will provide a cot or extra bed.

Can you bring your phone to a sleep study?

What happens if you can’t sleep during a sleep study?

If you absolutely can’t sleep during your study, you may be able to take a sleeping pill. This is one of the questions to ask ahead of time. Unless you take a prescription sleep aid regularly, you’ll be able to use a light over the counter medication like melatonin or Benadryl.

Do you have to sleep on your back for a sleep study?

A: We want you to sleep in your natural position. Many people roll over and change positions multiple times during the night. While sleep apnea is more prevalent when sleeping on your back, the Technician may ask you to try sleeping on your back for a portion of the test.

Can a sleep study detect heart problems?

Using a test called polysomnography, your doctor can monitor your heart, lung and brain activity and other movements while you sleep. This study helps rule out other sleep disorders such as restless legs syndrome or narcolepsy.

Can I watch TV during a sleep study?

“Once the patient is in bed, ready for sleep, the wires usually do not interfere with sleep,” says Kline. They can read, relax or even watch television before going to sleep since many sleep centers have TVs in the room.