Polysomnography

Polysomnography

Polysomnography is a sleep test that is used to diagnose sleep disorders. It is an overnight sleep test that is conducted in a sleep laboratory or outside a clinical setting. This test monitors patient's various physiologic parameters as he or she is sleeping. The parameters that are monitored can include brain activity (electroencephalogram, or EEG), eye movements, muscle tone, heart rate, and breathing patterns.

Preparation

The patient should be prepared before the test is conducted. The patient should not consume any stimulants or alcohol on the day of the test. He or she should follow the prescribed sleep schedule and not have any intense physical activity. The patient should inform the doctor or technician of any medications he or she is currently taking.

Procedure

The patient is connected to a polysomnography machine through various sensors and electrodes. The patient is then placed in a comfortable position and instructed to fall asleep. The sensors will monitor the patient’s brain activity, eye movement, heart rate, breathing patterns, and muscle movement during sleep. The data is continuously monitored and recorded by a computer which is then analyzed by a qualified medical professional. This analysis helps to detect any abnormalities in the patient’s sleep patterns.

Types of Polysomnography

• Full Polysomnography: This test records brain activity, eye movement, oxygen level in the blood, snoring and body movement during sleep. It is typically used to diagnose sleep apnea.
• Limited Polysomnography: This type of test records fewer parameters than the full test. It is typically used to diagnose insomnia and narcolepsy.
• Ambulatory Polysomnography: This type of test is conducted outside of a sleep laboratory or clinical setting. It records the same parameters as the full test, but usually for a shorter duration.

Risks

Polysomnography is generally safe and there are no major risks associated with it. The patient may experience mild discomfort from the electrodes and sensors, but these are temporary and go away after the test. In some cases, the patient may experience slight pain from the electrodes or sensitivity to the signal processor.

When is the Test Conducted?

The test is typically conducted to diagnose and/or monitor sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and restless leg syndrome. Additionally, this test can be used to assess the effectiveness of certain medications used to treat sleep disorders.

Why is the Test Conducted?

This test is conducted to diagnose various sleep disorders and identify the underlying cause. It is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for sleep disorders. By monitoring patients’ sleep patterns, doctors can identify abnormalities, and adjust treatments as needed.