Do I need a Sleep Study?

Do you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep? 

Do you snore loudly or gasp for breath when you sleep? 

Do you feel sleep deprived for weeks at a time?

Nearly 7 out of 10 Americans said they experience frequent sleep problems in a recent poll. If you said yes to any of the questions above, please talk to your doctor about your sleep habits.  If necessary, see a certified sleep specialist.  Many people are diagnosed with sleep disorders after participating in a sleep study.

What to Expect During the Study

Sleep studies are also called polysomnograms.  You will typically spend one or two nights in a sleep lab.  Hospitals do sleep studies as well as independent facilities.  The rooms are designed to mimic what your bedroom at home might feel like, so you can relax.  During the study, electrodes are placed on your head, chest, and legs.  The procedure is completely painless.  While you sleep, your brain function, eye movements, muscle contractions, heartbeat, and breathing pattern will be recorded.  A Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT) will monitor your sleep during the study.

What to Expect After the Study

After the sleep study is over, a doctor will interpret your sleep data to determine if you have a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea.  Several conditions may be diagnosed.  Treatment options may include medication, psychotherapy, diet and lifestyle changes, or breathing machines to reduce snoring and sleep apnea.  Some patients may have to schedule a sleep study once a year to maintain good sleep health.

If you have sleep apnea, chances are you will need to start CPAP therapy.  This machine is connected to a hose and mask that provide pressurized air to your nose and throat while sleeping.  It can take some getting used to, but CPAP therapy is an effective way to eliminate snoring and breathing problems caused by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It is critical that you choose a device that fits comfortably and functions properly.

Americare Respiratory Services is a leading provider of CPAP equipment.  We have devices designed just for women.  If you have any questions or concerns about CPAP, BiPAP, or VPAP devices, please give us a call.  We have a knowledgeable and friendly staff that is standing by to help.

For more information, visit https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/sleep-studies.