What is a sleep study and why am I having one?

The study is called a polysomnogram (PSG) and it's a safe, painless and simple evaluation of how your body functions during sleep. It is performed by a registered sleep technician. Data is recorded while you are sleeping and later reviewed by a board-certified sleep physician.The study can provide a detailed evaluation to determine if you have a sleep disorder. If you do have a sleep disorder, it is important to be diagnosed and treated. Untreated sleep disorders can contribute to other diseases and conditions such as; stoke, heart attack, high blood pressure and depression.A common sleep breathing disorder, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), is caused by the airway closing and preventing the flow of air into the lungs. The resulting pauses in breathing can occur 30 times or more per hour. Without effective treatment, people with OSA may be at risk of developing a number of serious health concerns. Because of the excessive daytime sleepiness that exists with OSA, drivers who are untreated can become a hazard to themselves and others while on the road.

Where are sleep studies held?

Sleep studies typically occur in a facility called a sleep center or sleep lab. These facilities have staff and equipment dedicated to diagnosing sleep disorders. There may be multiple sleep studies going on in the facility throughout the day and evening.

How long will it take?

The visit to the sleep centre takes a total of about 10 hours. The set-up process for the study takes about 30 minutes.

What kind of room will I be sleeping in?

For comfort and privacy, the room is designed as a bedroom. There will be a bed with pillows and blankets. There may be a nightstand and reading lamp in the room. You can bring objects from home to make the environment more comfortable for you.

What do I need to know, or do before coming to the sleep center for my sleep study?

One week before your study: You may be asked to keep a list of your sleep habits for a week before your study. This will provide your physician and the sleep lab staff with important backgrounds and information on your sleep habits. Also, a list of any medications you are taking and your use of caffeine, alcohol or drugs may be requested.

The Day of your study: Shower, shampoo and dry your hair. Leave non-essential valuables at home. Arrive at least 15 minutes early for your study in case there is any additional paperwork to complete. Bring two-piece comfortable sleep attire and slippers.

What NOT to do the day of your study: Don't nap, use hair gels, creams, oils, hairspray, lotions or creams on your face or body. Don't wear makeup or jewelry, acrylic nails or hair braids/weaves. Don't consume caffeinated foods or beverages (avoid: chocolate, coffee, tea and soda etc).

What happens during the study?

When you arrive for your study you will be greeted by a staff member who will show you to your room and provide an explanation of the sleep study process. There may be a questionnaire for you to fill out. Then you will change into your sleep attire.

The sleep technician will attach sensors to part of your body such as your scalp, forehead, chin, chest, ankle/leg and index finger. These sensors measure the activities of your brain, heart, lungs and certain muscles during sleep. The sensors are painless and are attached using a temporary adhesive/ gel paste that is easily removed with soap and water. Unless your body hair is extremely thick on your legs or chest, shaving will not be needed. The hair on your head can be parted when applying. Elastic bands may also be placed around your chest and abdomen to measure your breathing.

The sensors are connected by wires to a computer that records and stores data. The wires are long and small, enabling you to move around in bed. After the wires sensors are applied you can watch television, read a book or simply lie in bed until you are ready to fall asleep. Before you actually fall asleep, the technician will come in the room to connect wires from the computer to the sensors on your body. If you need to use the restroom during night the sleep technician will let you know how to handle this.

The sleep technician will be situated at a separate work station located in the facility which has various monitoring and recording devices to provide a full evaluation and report. If a sensor becomes detached the technician will awaken you to reattach it. Also, if the technician becomes aware- from the data being collected and monitored- that you may have a severe sleep breathing disorder and may benefit from immediate therapy that involves airflow to your airway, he or she will awaken you to apply the therapy equipment. Once you fall back to sleep, data will be collected on how you sleep patterns respond to the therapy.

How long it takes you to fall asleep is part of the data that will be recorded.

What happens in the morning?

The study will end when the technician determines that sufficient data has been recorded or when you awake in the morning. After the technician removes the sensors you can change your clothes and leave. You will be able to work the next day if needed and will be out of the lab by 6am or 7am.

How long will it take to get my results?

The results take approximately two weeks and will be sent to the physician who prescribed the study. He or she will contact you to review the results, discuss if a diagnosis has been made and determine if therapy is needed. If the physician feels that you need to be treated with a sleep therapy device (CPAP), another sleep study may be scheduled so data can be collected while you sleep with the device.

Will the cost of my sleep study be covered?

Your sleep study may be funded or covered by your insurance company. Ask the sleep clinic in your area.