Sleep Study - Polysomnography

 

What is a sleep study?

A Polysomnograph, or Sleep Study, is a useful diagnostic test to determine if you have a sleep disorder.

 

Where is the sleep study performed?

It is performed in the hospital, requiring an over-night stay in the hospital.

 

What is involved in a typical sleep study?

You will be asked to "sleep" in the hospital while you are monitored. You will be hooked up to numerous electrodes and probes, which then monitors your brain waves, muscle activity, and breathing pattern during sleep. The test is performed by a certified technician, but teh results are interpreted by Dr. Athni.

 

What information will be revealed with a sleep study?

The initial sleep study is useful in diagnosing "what type" of sleep problem you may have, if any. After Dr. Athni interprets the results of the first study, a second study may be scheduled. The second study is more disease specific, trying to assess whether any particular treatment option is beneficial.

 

What treatment is available for sleep disorders?

The second sleep study will also be interpreted by Dr. Athni. Based on the results of the second sleep study, appropriate treatment options will be discussed and initiated.