Why do I need a sleep study?
In order for us to fully evaluate your sleep and any potential sleep disorders, an all-night sleep test, also called a polysomnogram (PSG), may be done. The test records brain waves, breathing, heart rate, oxygen, muscle tone and other functions. After the study, a sleep specialist will review and interpret the record to help you and your health care provider understand your specific sleep disorder. Treatment recommendations will be made when your medical history and the results of your physical examination and sleep test have been reviewed.
What can I expect?
Many people expect a sleep center to be cold, bright, technical and impersonal-looking. Elite Sleep Solutions, the surroundings are homey and comfortable, similar to a hotel room.
When you arrive – usually at 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM – the technician will greet you and show you to your bedroom. You will be shown the equipment that will be used and given a chance to ask questions. You should inform the technician of any changes in your sleep or specific difficulties you have not already discussed with your health care provider. Your wake-up time will also be confirmed.
While you are sleeping, various important body functions and measurements are recorded. The technician will monitor your sleep throughout the night from a nearby room. Electrode wires will be gathered together behind your head so you can roll over and change positions.
Overview
A multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) is a diagnostic study used to evaluate patients with suspected narcolepsy or excessive daytime sleepiness. This test requires that you stay at the Sleep Center for most of the day for a series of short naps, scheduled at set intervals throughout the day. The amount and type of sleep you get during naps can help sleep specialists better understand your sleep complaints and make decisions about specific sleep disorders and treatments. Frequently, multiple sleep latency tests will be performed the day after an all-night sleep test.
What can I expect?
A qualified sleep technologist performs the study. The technologist will apply the various electrodes used to record brain waves, eye movement and muscle tone activity. Throughout the day you will be given four or five opportunities to fall asleep and take a short nap. These naps are usually scheduled with two-hour intervals in between. During these two-hour intervals, you will need to stay awake.
The study will be evaluated by a technologist and reviewed by a physician. A report will be available within one week, and you or your physician will be contacted with the results. Some patients will require a return appointment.