Sleep Test

Remember, a good night’s sleep starts with a diagnosis!

You may need one if you suffer from the following general symptoms of sleep disorder:

• difficulty falling or staying asleep
• daytime fatigue
• strong urge to take naps during the day
• unusual breathing patterns
• unusual or unpleasant urges to move while falling asleep
• unusual movement or other experiences while asleep
• unintentional changes to your sleep/wake schedule
• irritability or anxiety
• impaired performance at work or school
• lack of concentration
• depression
• weight gain

What is a sleep study?

A sleep study is a painless evaluation of your sleep patterns. While you sleep in a comfortable bed in our sleep lab, we monitor your brain waves, eye movements, breathing patterns, oxygen levels, snoring, muscle tone, leg movements and heart rate.

That information helps us determine if you have a sleep disorder and if we can help you sleep better.

Will I be hooked up with wires during the sleep study?

Yes. Your sleep technician will apply sensors or electrodes to monitor the activities that take place in your body and brain during sleep. Elastic belts are placed around your chest and abdomen to measure your breathing.

A sensor is also placed on your finger or earlobe to monitor the level of oxygen in your blood and heart rate.

How can I sleep with all of the sensors?

Your sleep technician will adjust everything to make you as comfortable as possible; most people quickly get used to the sensors and sleep reasonably well. Be sure to ask your sleep physician in advance if you have specific concerns about this.

Will the sensors hurt?

No. This is a painless and non-invasive testing procedure. Paste is applied to your skin and scalp to keep the electrodes in place, but it is easily removed with soap and warm water.

Do you make a video recording of the study?

Yes. It is important for you to be monitored during the study to get accurate data. We have a camera in the room to record all your sleep activity.

I have trouble falling sleep in new places or surroundings. What if I am not able to sleep?

Our rooms are cozy and comfortable. Most people do not have any trouble falling asleep. Your sleep doctor can discuss sleep aids with you if they are needed. But if you are nervous, come visit us! A tour of our facility will make you more comfortable about sleeping here.

What if I have to go to the bathroom?

All the wires lead to a box that can be easily detached if you have to go to the restroom.

The room has a microphone to call the sleep technician who will come in immediately and detach the box for you.

How long is the sleep study?

We usually have people come in between 8-10 pm and we end around 6 am.

I work graveyard shifts. How can I get a study?

We have lot of patients who are shift workers. We can schedule your sleep study during your normal sleep hours. We try to be as accommodating as possible.

How should I prepare for my study?

It is important to avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages the day of your study. Do not take any naps that day. If possible, shower and shampoo your hair before you arrive, but avoid using any skin creams or oils. Remove your nail polish.

What causes sleep disorders?

There are many conditions, diseases, and disorders that can cause sleep disturbances. In many cases, sleep disorders develop as a result of an underlying health problem.

Allergies and respiratory problems

Allergies, colds, and upper respiratory infections can make it challenging to breathe at night.

The inability to breathe through your nose can also cause sleeping difficulties.

Frequent urination

Nocturia, or frequent urination, may disrupt your sleep by causing you to wake up during the night.

Hormonal imbalances and diseases of the urinary tract may contribute to the development of this condition.

Be sure to call your doctor right away if frequent urination is accompanied by bleeding or pain.

Chronic pain

Constant pain can make it difficult to fall asleep. It might even wake you up after you fall asleep.

Some of the most common causes of chronic pain include:

•  arthritis
• chronic fatigue syndrome
• fibromyalgia
• inflammatory bowel disease
• persistent headaches
• continuous lower back pain

In some cases, chronic pain may even be exacerbated by sleep disorders. For instance, doctors believe the development of fibromyalgia might be linked to sleeping problems.

Stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety often have a negative impact on sleep quality. It can be difficult for you to fall asleep or to stay asleep. Nightmares, sleep talking, or sleepwalking may also disrupt your sleep.

How are sleep disorders treated?

Treatment for sleep disorders can vary depending on the type and underlying cause. However, it generally includes a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes.

Medical treatments

Medical treatment for sleep disturbances might include any of the following:

• sleeping pills
• melatonin supplements
• allergy or cold medication
• medications for any underlying health issues
• breathing device or surgery (usually for sleep apnea)
• a dental guard (usually for teeth grinding)

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle adjustments can greatly improve your quality of sleep, especially when they’re done along with medical treatments. You may want to consider:

• incorporating more vegetables and fish into your diet, and reducing sugar intake
• reducing stress and anxiety by exercising and stretching
• creating and sticking to a regular sleeping schedule
• drinking less water before bedtime
• limiting your caffeine intake, especially in the late afternoon or evening
• decreasing tobacco and alcohol use
• eating smaller low carbohydrate meals before bedtime
• maintaining a healthy weight based on your doctor’s recommendations

Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can also significantly improve your sleep quality. While you might be tempted to sleep in on the weekends, this can make it more difficult to wake up and fall asleep during the workweek.

What is the outlook for someone with a sleep disorder?

The effects of sleep disorders can be so disruptive that you will likely want immediate relief. Unfortunately, long-term cases can take a bit more time to resolve.

However, if you stick with your treatment plan and regularly communicate with your doctor, you can find your way to better sleep.