A sleep study, or polysomnography, will test for disordered breathing, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or other sleep disorders. This sleep study test will monitor and record breathing rates, airflow, oxygen levels, and heart rate. Additionally, a person can perform their sleep study at home or in a sleep clinic.
Before Polysomnography
Preparing for a sleep study may seem overwhelming, but here are a few essential tips to ensure your testing goes smoothly:
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Don’t take a nap(s)
- Take a shower before
- Don’t use lotion, gel, or colognes
Alcohol and caffeine can change typical sleep patterns. Moreover, alcohol and caffeine can make some symptoms of sleep disorders more severe. Napping is strongly discouraged as it can make gaining an accurate reading impossible. In some cases, bathing before arriving at the sleep clinic will be encouraged. If attending a sleep clinic, please check if they would prefer the individual to shower ahead of time. In addition, lotions, gels, colognes/sprays, and even makeup can make it difficult for the electrodes to provide accurate readings, as these items can interfere with using electrodes.
If conducting the sleep study test at home, one can either choose to have the equipment delivered or pick up the equipment from their doctor’s office. Also, with the at-home sleep test, it is critical to follow all directions and instructions. If one has questions or concerns regarding the at-home sleep test, they should discuss these with their doctor.
During Polysomnography
While the sleep test is happening, the individual should follow their regular sleep routine and schedule. Individuals may bring items they use for their nighttime routine and their pajamas. After preparing for bed, technicians will enter the testing room (looks similar to a hotel room) and place electrodes and sensors on the individual’s scalp, legs, chest, and temples. The technicians will then connect these sensors to a computer with wires. Technicians will be available throughout the evening to monitor and assist the person with any concerns.
After Polysomnography
After the sleep study is over, technicians will remove all wires, sensors, and electrodes and send individuals home to await their results. Results are then sent to a specialist for interpretation and diagnosis. If an individual receives a sleep apnea diagnosis, individuals will be fitted for a CPAP mask. If an individual cannot wear a CPAP mask, a dentist can provide an oral appliance therapy device to treat symptoms.
Contact Us
Dr. Buck is a facial orthopedist based in the state of Washington. Dr. Buck, and his fellow ENT physicians and pulmonologists, by combining their expertise, help patients find relief from sleep apnea. With Dr. Buck and his team, relief from the severity and alleviate symptoms of sleep breathing issues is possible. For more information on Dr. Buck’s practice and the treatment options he provides, please schedule an appointment by giving us a call today at 425-361-7499. Additionally, one may contact us by filling out our online form.
