FAQs: Sleep Testing

1. What is a Polysomnogram?
   A polysomnogram (PSG) is a recording similar to an EEG or EKG. The PSG uses those recordings in additions to the ones listed below to help determine the quality of your sleep throughout the night.
   
   
2. What types of signals are usually recorded?
   The signal recorded depends on your specific problem. Usually we record the following:
   Brain waves (EEG),
   Heart rate and rhythm
   Eye movement
   Muscle activity
   Leg movements
   Airflow
   Breathing Movements
   Oxygen
   
   
3. Why is it necessary to record all these things?
   During sleep your body functions differently than when you are awake. The only way to determine just how well your body is functioning while you are asleep is with these sensors. They are all necessary in order to get a complete picture of what is happening.
   
   
   
4. What happens the evening I arrive at the hospital for testing?
   You will be asked to report to the Admitting Office to complete the necessary paperwork on the evening of your PSG. The technician will meet you in the lobby and escort you to the Sleep Center. You will then be requested to change in to your bed -clothes. The technician will then begin applying the electrodes and other sensors to your head and others to your body.
   
   
5. Before you go to sleep:
   After all the electrodes have been applied, you may watch television, etc., until the technician is ready to start the test. Immediately before the lights are out, additional sensors for monitoring respirations, etc. may be attached depending on the purpose of the study.
   
   
6. Will anyone be in the Sleep Center while I am sleeping?
   A trained polysomnographic technician will remain in the control room of the Sleep Center monitoring you continuously all night. Often there will be another person who is also having sleep testing in the next bedroom. The technician will make every attempt to make sure your stay in the Sleep Center as pleasant as possible.
   
   
7. What happens when I awake? After you wake up and inform the technician that you do not wish to remain in bed any longer, the technician will detach all electrodes and other sensors. You will be asked to complete a short questionnaire. After this, you will be ready to leave if you are not scheduled for daytime testing.
   
   
8. What happens to the test results? After the PSG, the polysomnographic technologist and board certified sleep disorder specialist would review the record and determine what stages of sleep you had and look for the respiratory event, leg movements, etc. A complete report is then prepared by a sleep disorder specialist. After the specialist has completed interpreting the study, the report will be sent to your physician with a treatment plan proposed within a week. If needed, you may have a follow-up visit to the Sleep Center.