What is a sleep study?

A sleep study, or polysomnography, is a diagnostic test that monitors various body functions while you sleep. It helps identify sleep disorders like sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, and others by tracking brain activity, eye movements, muscle tone, heart rate, and breathing patterns.

Sleep studies are not only used for diagnosing sleep disorders but also for evaluating the effectiveness of ongoing treatments. Whether it's adjusting CPAP therapy for sleep apnea or monitoring the impact of medications for narcolepsy, a sleep study offers valuable insights to ensure proper care.

Why do I need a sleep study?

Your doctor may recommend a sleep study if you’re experiencing symptoms such as loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty falling asleep, or interrupted sleep. The test helps determine the cause of these issues, so a proper diagnosis and treatment plan can be made.

After the sleep study, the results will be analyzed by a sleep specialist. It may take a few days to receive the full report, but your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the findings and recommend the next steps for treatment.