In-Lab Sleep Testing

What Is an In-Lab Sleep Study?

An in-lab sleep study, also called polysomnography, is a painless overnight test that monitors your brain activity, breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and muscle movements while you sleep.

This comprehensive test helps diagnose sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, insomnia, periodic limb movement disorder, REM behavior disorder, and parasomnias (like sleepwalking or night terrors).

You’ll stay in a private room designed for comfort, with a full-sized bed, soft lighting, and amenities to help you feel at ease. A trained sleep technologist will monitor your sleep from a nearby control room and gather data throughout the night.

Why Would I Need an In-Lab Study Instead of a Home Test?

In-lab studies are ideal for patients with more complex sleep issues or those whose symptoms may not be fully captured by a home sleep test. For example, if your doctor suspects you have a condition like central sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or parasomnias, an in-lab study offers a more detailed assessment. It also allows for continuous monitoring and adjustments throughout the night, if needed.

What Should I Expect the Night of My Study?

You’ll arrive at our sleep lab around 8 or 9 PM. One of our friendly technologists will greet you, walk you through the process, and help you get settled into your room. They’ll attach small sensors to your head, chest, and legs using medical-grade adhesive or elastic bands.

These sensors are non-invasive and designed to be as comfortable as possible. You’ll still be able to move, change positions, and use the restroom if needed during the night.

Once you're ready to sleep, the technologist will monitor your sleep patterns and gather data until early morning. If you're having trouble falling asleep, a mild sleep aid may be offered to help you relax.

Will I Be Woken Up During the Test?

In most cases, the goal is to allow you to sleep as naturally and undisturbed as possible. However, if certain thresholds are met (such as confirming obstructive sleep apnea early in the night), your technologist may begin CPAP titration—introducing a CPAP mask to assess how well it improves your breathing during sleep.

How Will I Get My Results?

After your study, your results will be reviewed by our board-certified sleep specialist, Dr. Gowda. Our office will reach out to schedule a follow-up visit to review the findings, answer your questions, and go over any recommended treatment options. If you were referred by another provider, we’ll also send a detailed report directly to them.