Sleep Study

A diagnostic sleep study at the Major Sleep Center consists of a comfortable test that provides necessary information to your physician for the accurate diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders. To complete the test, patients spend one night in a private bedroom suite at our sleep center. Your bedroom suite is safe and clean. The atmosphere is warm and serene, with comforts such as a premium bed, high quality bedding and cable TV.

What is a Sleep Study (polysomnogram)?

A sleep study, or a polysomnogram is a recording that contains several types of measurements that are used to identify different sleep stages, monitor breathing, heart rate and body movements and to assist in the diagnosis of various sleep problems.

Various sensors and electrodes are applied to your head and skin to monitor your sleep. Small electrodes are placed on the head, face and legs to determine the stage of sleep and detect movements. A flow sensor is placed beneath the nose and in front of the mouth and a snore microphone is placed on the throat. Electrodes are also placed to monitor heart rhythms. Stretchy elastic belts are placed around the chest and abdomen to record breathing effort. A sensor is placed on your finger to observe oxygen saturation and heart rate.

With certain sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, your physician may also order a sleep study that may involve using CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure). The CPAP equipment is a small device that sits on the bedside table that provides pressurized air through tubing attached to a mask-like device. Your technologist will explain in detail the procedure.

Some patients may be scheduled for additional testing throughout the next day (MSLT). This is a series of naps at two-hour intervals to measure daytime sleepiness. Bring something comfortable to wear during these tests. Also, bring reading material or work to keep you occupied during the wake periods. TV is provided.

After the sleep study, our sleep specialists analyze the data collected and a detailed report is prepared that will help your physician diagnose and treat any identified sleep disorders.

Why do I need a sleep study?

Your physician may suspect you have a sleep disorder. Untreated, sleep disorders can have a devastating impact on your health and quality of life. Obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, decreased cognitive function, and other health concerns have been linked to inadequate sleep. A sleep study provides the information your physician needs to make a proper diagnosis and provide effective treatment recommendations.

How will I be able to sleep in a strange environment?

Our bedroom suites are designed to provide a home-like environment. Diagnostic sensors are non-invasive and allow you to sleep just as you would at home.

What should I do to prepare for my study?

The following preparations should be made just before your overnight stay:

• Shower and shampoo your hair.
• Avoid using excess products on your hair after it has been cleaned and dried (gel, cream, hairspray).
• Do not wear makeup or please remove shortly after arrival.
• Nail polish/acrylic nails may need to be removed on a finger to record a clear oxygen signal.
• Do not use creams or lotions on your face and body.
• Do not nap the day of your study.
• Do not drink or eat products containing caffeine (coffee, tea, carbonated beverages, chocolate) or alcohol afternoon the day of your study (after 3 a.m. before a day study).
• Continue to take all regular medications. Check with your physician if you are taking any sleeping medications to see if they want you to take them at the time of your sleep study.
• Bring pajamas or something comfortable to sleep in.
• Pack an overnight bag with personal items you may need, such as toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant.

Major Sleep Center
1644 E. State Rd. 44 | Shelbyville, IN 46176
317.421.2011