Diagnostic Tests

Sleep Studies

We spend a third of our lives sleeping ... it influences our physical, psychological and social well being. It is how we “recharge our batteries” every night, preparing us to face the following day, alert and energized.

Obviously, any disruption to our sleeping patterns can negatively impact the moments we spend awake. Not getting enough sleep, or poor sleep due to a sleep disorder, can rob you of your energy, reduce mental sharpness, and increase the risk of accidents while driving or on the job. About 70 million Americans suffer from a sleep disturbance which disrupts their days and can grow into an ongoing lack of sleep that can lead to serious health problems — including high blood pressure, heart problems, stroke, depression, and even sudden death.

When you arrive for your sleep study, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire. Once you are settled into your private room, a technologist registered and certified in sleep medicine will place several small sensors on your scalp, face, chest, abdomen and legs. These sensors monitor brain wave activity, eye movement, muscle activity and heart and respiratory rates. This set up takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

The technologist will watch your sleep during the night via closed circuit television. He or she will monitor your oxygen levels, body movements and muscle activity from the chin and legs. The technologist is also present should you need anything during the night.

After your test, a physician who is board certified in sleep medicine will read the results and interpret the data. If a sleeping disorder is discovered, the physician will provide a recommendation for treatment or follow-up.

To prepare for your exam:

• Please bathe and shampoo before coming to the lab. Do not use hairsprays or oils, and please remove all make-up.
• No caffeine (coffee, tea, or soft drinks), or nonprescription drugs should be consumed on the day of the test.
• Please remain awake the day of the test.
• Please eat dinner before coming to the test.
• NO smoking is permitted in the lab.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages the day of the test.
• Please bring your own toiletries, comfortable nightwear, any medications you may need, and the pillow you usually sleep on.

A family member or friend may accompany you to the test. They will be required to leave before the testing begins unless otherwise cleared by the staff.