Sleep Study/Polysomnogram
What is it?
A sleep study is a procedure where different body signals are recorded during sleep to diagnosis and treat various sleep disorders. These studies are done in a monitored sleep room (similar to a nice hotel room or bedroom) or in your home. The decision to complete the study in a monitored environment or the home is dependent on your physical health, other medication diagnoses, and medications. This decision is made following your initial consultation with Dr. Gowda and/or based on your physician's recommendations.
Who needs a sleep study?
A sleep study is utilized to diagnose and treat various sleep disorders. The most common reason is for symptoms and signs of obstructive sleep apnea. It is also used to diagnose Narcolepsy and for certain parasomnias (behaviors that occur while asleep), such as sleep walking and sleep eating.
Types of sleep studies
A. Monitored (in laboratory and sleep technician attended) Sleep Study
This is a safe procedure where you sleep overnight in the facility that is designed for comfort. The facility at Texas Sleep Medicine is state of the art with the latest in technological advances; the rooms are private and attractively designed. A centralized control room with night staff in attendance to gather the data and provide you with the services needed for the night. The rooms are sound and light attenuated.
During this study various body functions are measured. This includes brain waves, eye movements, breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate and rhythm and limb movements. These measures are used for diagnosing various sleep disorders and initiating treatment.
What happens when I arrive for a monitored sleep study?
You will arrive at 8 or 9 pm in the evening. Well trained technologists will be there to greet you and allow you to make your self at home in the bedroom. Then for about 30-45 minutes various sensors will gently be applied on your skin (head, chest, abdomen, and legs). This process is completely painless. The wires are long enough to allow you to move around in bed.
You are free to read or watch TV until your normal bedtime. When you are sleepy you let the technologist know and they will assist you in getting ready for sleep. If falling asleep is difficult, sometimes a sleep medication may be used to help you fall asleep. You can use the restroom during the night, as often as necessary.
In the morning, about 6 am the sensors are removed. This will complete the study. Coffee and pastries will be available for your comfort.
How and when do I get the results of the testing?
Once all the data is reviewed and interpreted by Dr. Gowda you will be contacted and results can be obtained by returning to the office or results can be obtained via a web link. A treatment plan and ongoing care will be discussed and initiated following this study.