What is a "sleep study?"?
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Also called a polysomnogram, is a multiple-component test, which electronically transmits and records specific physical activities while you sleep. The recordings become data, which will be "read" or analyzed by a qualified physician to determine whether or not you have a sleep disorder, which can cause pauses in your breathing pattern, or sleep apnea. If the first portion of the test is abnormal (i.e., your breathing percentage is below a certain amount), then a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine will be added in the second portion (this is considered a split night study) of the sleep study to evaluate at what level you may need the CPAP machine at home. A followup sleep study might be performed at a later date to titrate up your CPAP pressures to accommodate your sleep apnea, if the split night study above is not performed.
It is best to avoid alcohol and caffeine products which can affect the outcome of a sleep study.
You are hooked up to electrodes over various portions of your body (including your scalp) , these will help the technician record your body's rhythms (movements) throughout the night. The link below will give you all kinds of information about what goes on in certain portions of the study. They evaluate how long it takes you to fall asleep, how long you sleep before an episode of apnea hits (if you have one), etc.
I am sure they will allow you to do what you normally do to prepare to sleep, including watching television.
They're going to hook a bunch of wires to your body, lay you in a bed and shut the lights off at a designated time. There will be a camera watching you, they'll be able to talk to and listen to you. Once you're in bed the wires wont really bug you. They will monitor your brain waves and body movements all night then submit the information to your doctor with their recommendations. You'll need to schedule a follow up visit with your doctor to get the results. It'll be fine!
Yes, they will let you watch TV, read, whatever. Be sure not to sleep in on the day or two before your study.
I was not allowed to watch tv. Therefore, I did not sleep and they did not get what they wanted..lol. They basically hook you up to all kinds of wires. They put them on your head as well. They have cameras in the room and then you sleep.
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