Think You Have Sleep Apnea? Get A Sleep Study
If you think that you may have sleep apnea you should see a sleep disorders specialist. Then you will probably be sent for a sleep study, or polysomnogram, which will record various parameters while you sleep and serve as a tool for diagnosis.
A sleep study is considered to be the “gold standard” in the diagnosis of sleep apnea. It will give the most accurate representation of how your body systems work together when you sleep. After your sleep study, your sleep specialist will review the record with you to help you understand it.
Sleep is vital to your well being. And it is not a simple process. There are different stages of sleep and they can only be identified by measuring activity in both the brain and the body.
On the day of your sleep study you will be asked to avoid caffeine after 12 p.m. You should also avoid alcohol. Be sure that your hair is clean and free of sprays, oils or gels.
Your physician should know which medications you are taking and will advise you as to whether you should continue will all medications prior to having your sleep study done. Most medicines will be taken as usual, but there may be some that need to be discontinued in the days leading up to your sleep study. Unless instructed by your physician, continue taking your meds as usual.
Pack an overnight bag for your stay at the sleep center. Take something to sleep in and your toiletries. You may prefer to sleep with your own pillow and blanket, even though these things will be provided for you. Take any medications with you that you will need to take during your time there. Sleep Centers do not have a pharmacy as hospitals do.
Staying at a sleep center is somewhat like spending a night in a hotel. The difference being that you will have numerous wires attached to you when you sleep at the sleep center and someone will be watching you and monitoring your sleep. Generally, patients who require a sleep study are so sleep deprived that they can fall asleep anywhere.
Visit the sleep center before you are to go for your sleep study. Being familiar with the surroundings and understanding the process will alleviate any anxiety you have about your sleep study.
