What to Expect When You Go in for a Sleep Study

Do you often feel exhausted, no matter how much sleep you get? Are you constantly yawning during the day? If so, it might be time to go in for a sleep study. A sleep study is a test that helps doctors diagnose and treat sleep disorders. In this blog post, we will discuss what you can expect when you go in for a sleep study including what happens during it and afterwards. We’ll also share some tips on how you can prepare before the test.

What is a sleep study and why might you be referred for one?

A sleep study, also called a polysomnogram (PSG), is a type of sleep test that is used to diagnose sleep disorders. The test monitors your sleep patterns, breathing, heart rate, and brain waves. It can also measure how much oxygen is in your blood. Sleep studies are usually done overnight in a sleep lab or hospital. You will be connected to sensors and machines that will track your sleep.

You may be referred for a sleep study by your doctor if it’s suspected that you have sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, or another sleep disorder. You may also be referred for a sleep study if you report having sleepiness during the day, loud snoring at night, or gasping or choking during sleep.

What happens during a sleep study?

During the sleep study, you’ll be asked to wear comfortable clothes and sensors hooked to machines will be attached to your head, neck, chest, and legs. You will be able to move around freely during the test. You will be asked to sleep for at least four hours so that the doctors can get an accurate assessment of your sleep patterns.

The technicians will monitor you and look for any abnormalities while you’re asleep. They may also ask you to do some activities such as reading or watching television before going to bed so they can see how your sleep is affected.

After the sleep study, the technicians will analyze the data and discuss it with a sleep doctor. The sleep doctor will then give you a diagnosis and recommend treatment options.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your sleep study:

• Bring any medications you take at night so you can take them during the test.
• Bring comfortable clothes to sleep in. You may be asked to wear a hospital gown during the test.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before the sleep study as these are known to interfere with sleep.
• Follow your usual sleep routine as much as possible leading up to the sleep study.
• Closely follow any specific instructions given to you by the sleep centre or the attending sleep scientist.

A sleep study can be an important tool in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. Understanding what to expect during the sleep study, can help ensure that the test is as accurate as possible. If you have any questions about sleep studies or sleep disorders, please don’t hesitate to call us on 1800 717 566 and speak with one of our sleep professionals.