What is a Polysomnography? (PSG or Sleep Study)
A polysomnogram is conducted to determine whether or not you suffer from sleep apnea or some other form of sleep disorder. Wires and probes are painlessly attached to your body to monitor the following:
- Brain waves (EEG)
- Muscle tension of the chin, chest, abdomen, and legs (EMG)
- Eye movement (EOG)
- Respirations
- Oxygen level in the blood (SpO2)
- Audio (sounds of snoring, gasping, etc.)
- Body position
- Pulse transit time
- Heart rate and rhythm (EKG)
- Video
What are the indications for a Polysomnogram?
Polysomnography is used to diagnose, or rule out, many types of sleep disorders including narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, REM behavior disorder, parasomnias, and sleep apnea. It is often ordered for patients with complaints of daytime fatigue or sleepiness that may be caused by interrupted sleep.
Have you fallen asleep while driving?
Have you fallen asleep at work?
Do you fall asleep in inappropriate times or periods of inactivity?
Do you wake frequently during the night?
Do you snore?
Have you been told that you stop breathing or gasp for air while asleep?
Are there times that you must not fall asleep and are unable to stop yourself? (Sleep Attack)
Do you wake up absolutely unable to move for a few moments? (Sleep Paralysis)
Do you have dream like experiences that seem real while beginning to go to sleep or waking up? (Hypnagogic Hallucination)
Do you have muscle weakness or have fallen down due to emotional stress or laughter? (Cataplexy)
Do you have crawling sensation or a strong uncontrollable desire to move your legs making it difficult to fall asleep? (RLS)
Have you been told that you frequently kick your legs while asleep? (PLMS)
Do you or have you been told that you grind your teeth while asleep?
Preparing for a Sleep Study is similar to preparing for an overnight stay away from home. The following are things that should be brought with you to the scheduled appointment.
- Prescribed Medication needed for one night
- Something comfortable to sleep in
- Any other comforts from home to make your stay comfortable such as an overnight bag or personal pillow
Upon arrival you will be greeted by a Sleep Technician who will escort you to a comfortable room similar to a home bedroom. After the Technician attaches several sensors that will monitor your brain activity and other functions, you will be allowed to watch T.V. or read until it is time to turn the lights out. Lights out is at 10:30 PM. and wake up time is between 5:00 and 6:00 AM. In the morning you will be able to leave between 6:00 and 6:30AM. Coffee will be provided upon request.
Our Technicians are scheduled as needed and often travel to Seminole. So we respectfully request cancellations be made a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Thanks for your understanding and cooperation.
For cancellations please contact 432.758.4951
