WHAT IS A SLEEP STUDY?

• A sleep study is a test that measures how well you sleep and checks for sleep problems. For some sleep studies, you stay overnight in a sleep lab at a hospital or sleep center.
• In other cases, your doctor can give you a portable sleep monitor to use at home, so you don’t have to spend the night in the sleep lab.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A SLEEP STUDY?

• Before you go to sleep, a technician attaches small, sticky patches called “electrodes” to your head, chest, and legs. He or she will also place a small tube beneath your nose and might wrap 1 or 2 belts around your chest.
• Each of these items has wires that connect to monitors. The monitors record your movement, brain activity, breathing, and other body functions while you sleep.
• If you have a history of trouble falling asleep, your doctor might prescribe a medicine to help you fall asleep in the lab.

WHY MIGHT MY DOCTOR ORDER A SLEEP STUDY?

• Your doctor will order a sleep study if he or she thinks you have obstructive sleep apnea
• The main symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea are:
  • loud snoring,
  • tiredness, and
  • daytime sleepiness.
• Other symptoms can include:
  • Restless sleep
  • Waking up choking or gasping
  • Morning headaches, dry mouth, or sore throat
  • Waking up often to urinate
  • Waking up feeling un-rested or groggy
  • Trouble thinking clearly or remembering things

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR A SLEEP STUDY?

• On the day of your sleep study, you should:
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Avoid drinking coffee, tea, sodas, and other drinks that have caffeine in the afternoon and evening

Take all of your regular medicines, unless your doctor tells you not to.

Disclaimer

The content on the Nairobi ENT website is not intended nor recommended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your own physician or other qualified health care professional regarding any medical questions or conditions.