Sleep Studies
Sleep studies, also known as polysomnography, are specialized tests that monitor various physiological activities during sleep to diagnose sleep disorders. These studies evaluate brain waves, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, breathing patterns, and body movements to identify disruptions in sleep quality and uncover conditions such as sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs syndrome, or narcolepsy. At Revere Health, our sleep specialists use advanced technology and comprehensive sleep studies to help pinpoint the cause of sleep problems and develop personalized treatment plans to improve your sleep and overall health.
When Is a Sleep Study Recommended?
Sleep studies are typically recommended for patients experiencing:
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: Feeling unusually drowsy during the day despite getting enough sleep.
Loud Snoring or Gasping for Air: Potential signs of obstructive sleep apnea.
Difficulty Staying Asleep: Insomnia or other sleep disturbances.
Unusual Movements or Behaviors During Sleep: Such as sleepwalking or periodic limb movements.
Unexplained Fatigue or Poor Concentration: Symptoms that may indicate a sleep disorder.
Types of Sleep Studies
Polysomnography (PSG): A comprehensive overnight test conducted in a sleep lab that monitors brain activity, breathing, muscle movements, heart rate, and oxygen levels.
Home Sleep Apnea Testing (HSAT): A simplified version of a sleep study performed at home, primarily used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT): Measures daytime sleepiness and is often used to diagnose narcolepsy or excessive daytime sleepiness.
Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT): Evaluates the ability to stay awake in a quiet environment, used for assessing daytime alertness.
What to Expect During a Sleep Study
Preparation: You may be asked to avoid caffeine and naps on the day of the test. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring any items you need for an overnight stay if the study is done in a sleep lab.
Monitoring: Sensors will be placed on your scalp, face, chest, and limbs to record brain activity, eye movement, heart rate, breathing, and body movements. A comfortable environment is provided to help you relax and sleep as naturally as possible.
Data Collection: The sensors transmit data to a computer, allowing sleep specialists to analyze your sleep patterns.
Post-Study Review: The results are reviewed by a sleep specialist, who will discuss any findings and recommend a treatment plan based on the diagnosis.
Common Sleep Disorders Diagnosed with Sleep Studies
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Repeated pauses in breathing due to airway obstruction.
Central Sleep Apnea: Breathing stops because the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Narcolepsy: A neurological disorder that affects the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles.
Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): An uncontrollable urge to move the legs, especially at night.
Benefits of Sleep Studies
Accurate Diagnosis: Provides detailed information on sleep patterns and disorders.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Guides effective treatment strategies tailored to your specific condition.
Improved Health: Diagnosing and treating sleep disorders can significantly improve sleep quality, daytime alertness, and overall well-being.
Why Choose Revere Health?
Our sleep specialists use the latest technology and a patient-centered approach to diagnose and treat a variety of sleep disorders. We offer both in-lab and at-home sleep study options to suit your needs, ensuring comprehensive care for better sleep and improved health.
For more information or to schedule a sleep study, contact Revere Health today.