1) "What Is An Overnight Sleep Study?"

An overnight sleep study is a diagnostic test that includes several types of measurements used to identify different sleep stages and classify various sleep disorders. Small sensors are connected to the head, face, chest and legs of the patient to monitor different brain and body activities including brain waves, eye movements, heart rate, respiration and muscle movements. This will not be painful or uncomfortable and is very safe.

2) "Can I Fall Asleep With All Those Wires On Me?"

Every effort is made to make the study as comfortable as possible. The sensor wires are gathered together to make it easy for the patient to roll over and change position. The sensors can be disconnected very easily if the patient needs to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

3) "What Will Happen During My Study?"

While the patient is sleeping, various important body functions and data are monitored and recorded. The technician is monitoring the study throughout the duration of the study. If a respiratory or breathing problem is observed during sleep, the patient may be awakened to try a device that treats breathing problems. This device is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device and includes a small mask, which fits around the nose.

4) "Should I Take My Regular Medication The Night Of My Study?"

Yes. The patient should not discontinue any prescription medication without consulting his/her doctor first. It is, however, important that the patient writes down in the questionnaire that he/she is given before the study, any medication that he/she has been taking.

5) "Is There Anything In Particular That I Should Do On The Day Of My Study?"

It is important that the patient's hair is thoroughly dry and free of oils or sprays for the study. The patient should preferably not take any naps on the day of the study and should not take caffeinated beverages (including coffee, tea or soft drinks containing caffeine) 12 hours prior to the study. No alcoholic beverages should be consumed on the day of the study.

6) "What Happens After My Study?"

After a sleep study is finished, all the results will be compiled and will be forwarded to your personal physician. Once the study has been interpreted, a report will be sent to the patient's referring physician. It will typically take 1-2 weeks before a full report is sent to the referring physician.