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Sleep FAQs

 

  What is a sleep study?

Diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders are individualized for each patient. An initial evaluation will help to identify your problem. Your physicians may then determine that you need a sleep study to accurately diagnose the sleep disorder. In order to study your sleep, various brain activities and body systems will be observed through out the night. After the study, your physician will better understand your specific sleep patterns and problems. Treatment recommendations will be made based upon the study results. 

Q. What happens during the sleep study?

For an overnight study, you will be asked to arrive around 7:15 p.m. and will be taken to a room. You should bring an overnight bag, packed as for any overnight stay.

Next, sensors are attached to your head and body. These sensors monitor body activities during your sleep – such as brain waives, eye movements, heart rate, breathing and leg movements. The specially trained sleep technician will monitor your sleep all night from another room. You should be able to rollover, change positions and sleep in your usual positions.

Most overnight studies are completed by 6 a.m. If you are staying for a nap study, you can anticipate staying until 5 p.m.

Q. Is a sleep study covered by my health insurance?

A. Most insurance companies recognize the impact of sleep disorders on your health and reimburse for evaluation and testing. The sleep center will assist you in working with your insurance company to determine benefits.

Q. What do I need to do to prepare for my sleep study?

A.

  • On the day of your study, do not consume caffeine after 2 p.m.
  • Do not stop any medications, unless specifically requested by the sleep center physician.
  • Do not use any hair cream, moisturizers, rinses or sprays the day of the study.
  • Do not take a nap on day of study.
  • You may want to bring a pillow, book or your laptop. (Free Wi-Fi available).
  • Eat dinner before you come for your testing.
  • Bring comfortable clothes to sleep in.   
Q. What is Sleep Apnea?

A. Sleep apnea Sleep apnea is a disruption of breathing during sleep in which Apnea there are brief periods throughout the night when breathing stops. People with sleep apnea may not actually get enough oxygen and have inadequate sleep. The most common symptoms of sleep apnea are loud snoring, waking up feeling unrefreshed, having trouble staying awake during the day, headaches, waking up during the night and feeling like you are choking. 

What is Obstructive Sleap Apnea (OSA)?  

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is caused by an airway blockage that can disrupt your breathing while you sleep and may leave you feeling tired during the day. One of the most common symptoms of OSA is loud snoring. It is estimated that as many as 18 million Americans suffer from OSA. OSA is a medical condition that needs diagnosis and treatment by a doctor. OSA can have significant consequences to your health.