WHAT TO EXPECT... You've scheduled your sleep study, what now? On the night of your sleep study it is very important that you have followed the directions given to you by the sleep center regarding meals, medication and other issues. These are important precautions so that they do not interfere with the sleep study results. Alcohol and Caffeine, for example interfere with your sleep and should be avoided. Pack a small bag that includes your pajamas, toothbrush and any other necessary items you will need the next morning. Some patients even choose to bring their own pillows. The study will take place in a private room and the study should end around 5:30 to 6:00 the next morning. Technicians will be able to react quickly if you need help or have a question while in your room. It is the technician that is paying close attention to the activity of a sleeping patient. When you are escorted to your private bedroom, you will be asked to slip into your pajamas before the technician hooks up the surface electrodes. Once that is over and the preparation is over, you have time to relax and sleep. A television is provided, but a book or magazine is also recommended for you to bring just in case you have difficulty sleeping. A Key element in a sleep study is trying to understand what happens while you sleep. These electrodes that are attached to your body record electrical signals generated by your brain and muscle activity and are sent back through the wires and recorded digitally and on continuous strips of paper. It is these recordings that help reveal whether or not you have a sleep disorder and how severe it is.
EEG or Electroencephalogram -- measure and record four forms of brain wave activity. It is a major part of a sleep study. EMG or Electromyogram -- this records the muscle activity such as facial twitches, teeth grinding, and leg movement. This helps determine the presence of REM. EOG or Electro-oculogram -- this records eye movement. This can help determine the different stages of sleep. EKG or electrocardiogram -- this measure the heart activities and is attached to the chest. Nasal Airflow Sensor -- records the measurement of breathe temperature, airflow, apnea, etc. A sensor is place around the nose and mouth. Chest and Abdomen Belts -- records the depth of breathing. Oximeter -- records blood oxygen saturation. A band is clipped onto the finger. Snore Microphone -- records snoring that takes place.
Sleep is a complex activity that must occur for a successful plysomnographic study. Some sleep disorders are generally worse in a particular sleep stage, such as sleep apnea during REM sleep. Your PSG technician and sleep soecualist are well aware of these facts and want you to get as good a night's sleep as possible in order to make your test experience as beneficial. A CPAP Titration is required if sleep apnea is diagnosed or strongly suspected. To properly treat this, the correct CPAP air pressure setting must be determined by titration. This differs from patient to patient. During this procedure you are given a nasal mask. To ensure effectiveness and optimal comfort, the nasal mask is properly fitted prior to application. During the tritation study, the technician will set the air pressure on the CPAP at a certain level and then watch the resulting measurements. If that procedure does not reduce the number of apnea, the technician will adjust the air pressure at this time. We hope this information helps you better be prepared for your sleep study.
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