In The Lab

 

What is a polysomnogram?

A polysomnogram records sleep-related information while you sleep. Information recorded during a polysomnogram includes brainwaves, airflow, eye movements, and leg and chin movements. By analyzing the recordings from a polysomnogram, a sleep specialist can make the appropriate diagnosis of your specific sleep disorder.

  

Why do I have to stay overnight? 

Overnight sleep studies are the "gold standard" used for accurately diagnosing sleep disorders. Overnight studies are necessary in part because sleep patterns may vary throughout the night. In addition, overnight studies are important for detecting more subtle symptoms.

 

What should I do on the day of the test?

Avoid caffeine after noon.  Make sure you shower or bathe before you come in to the sleep lab.

 

Can I eat before my test? 
 

Yes, eat a normal dinner.

  

 

What should I bring to the Sleep Center for an overnight study? 

Reading materials, other things you use to sleep at home are OK.

 

Can I bring my own pillow?

Yes

 

What if I am going to be late or have to cancel ?

 

Please call the pulmonary office at (516) 608-2890 as soon as you know there is going to be a problem.

 

Will the recording be painful?

 

No. Leads are placed on the skin to record information but the recording process is non-invasive and is not painful.

 

Will the recording procedure disrupt my sleep?

 

People prone to insomnia may experience some interference with sleep. However, the vast majority of patients sleep well enough to have a successful sleep study.

  

Who will be in the laboratory while I am sleeping? 

 

To ensure patient safety a sleep technician remains on site and a physician is always on call.

 

Will I be given a sleeping pill? 

 

Patients who do not usually use sleeping aids will not be given one. However, if you normally take a sleeping pill to fall asleep, then we recommend you bring one to the sleep study.

 

Should I continue to take my medications before the test?

 

Yes.

 

Will I just be tested, or will treatment be started in the laboratory? 

 

Depending on what your physician orders, you may get a full night or split night study. If your physician has ordered a split night study and sleep apneas are detected, then you may receive CPAP therapy as part of the sleep study.

 

When do I have to get up in the morning ?

 

Depending on the night of the sleep study, you will be woken up between 6 and 7 a.m.  If you need to be awoken earlier, just tell the technician.  They will wake you up whenever you’d like.

 

What if I want to leave before the study is complete ?

 

Any shortening of the full study could limit our ability to fully interpret your sleep problem.  But, you are free to come and go as you please.

 

 

Can I go to work on the day after the test?

 

Absolutely.  The technician will wake you up at whatever time you need.  Just remember, there are no available facilities for showering in the morning.

 

Can children come in for sleep studies?

Please call the sleep center for information regarding a consultation or evaluation of your child. We may be able to help your child directly or we may refer your child to a sleep center that specializes in children.

  

Other Questions

 

What happens to my sleep recording after completion of the test? 

We are committed to analyzing data from your sleep study and discussing the results with you or your primary care physician as quickly as possible. The results are reviewed by a sleep scoring technologist and verified by a sleep specialist.

 

Can I get a copy of my test results? 

Yes. Just ask for it when you meet with your physician at the next appointment.

 

What treatment am I likely to receive after I complete my overnight sleep test?

The treatment is individualized depending on the clinical situation and results of the sleep study. We recommend that you make an appointment with your referring doctor for two weeks after the sleep study.