Sleep study? What's that? Most of us know that a sleep study involves spending a night in a sleep lab, but what happens during a sleep study?

During a sleep study, various sensors are attached to your body to measure things like brain activity, heart rate, breathing, and leg movements. You'll also be hooked to a monitor that tracks your eye movements. All of this information is used to diagnose sleep disorders you may have.

However, the idea of submitting to a sleep study may seem intimidating. You may wonder what else happens during a sleep study and whether it's safe.

If you have sleep problems or health issues possibly related to sleep, this test can give your doctor valuable information. Understanding what the process is like can make it seem much less scary. A sleep study requires a whole night of your time, but it doesn't have to be frightening.

What is a Sleep Study?

The long, scientific word for it is polysomnography. It is a medical diagnostic test that just happens to take longer and be a little more involved than other, simpler tests like drawing blood.

During a sleep study, you are monitored throughout a whole night of sleep, usually in a sleep center, sleep laboratory, or a sleep unit of a hospital. Other times, you may be tested in your own home or bed.

Polysomnography measures brain waves, depth of sleep, blood oxygen levels, breathing, heart rate, eye movements, and body movements throughout your sleep stages. This information, collected while you're sleeping, helps doctors diagnose sleep-related conditions.

There are several types of sleep studies, each measuring different things:

An Overnight Sleep Study is the most common type. During an overnight sleep study, your doctor will try to diagnose sleep disorders, such as insomnia, severe obstructive sleep apnea, and narcolepsy.

A Daytime Polysomnogram, or multiple sleep latency test (MSLT), measures how often you feel drowsy or fall asleep during the day. With the help of this test, doctors can find out whether you have a sleep disorder such as narcolepsy.

A Portable Monitor is a small, wearable device you can take home. It is used to diagnose sleep apnea. Home sleep apnea testing has been used to diagnose sleep apnea when a person cannot enter the sleep center for an overnight sleep test.

A Sleep Study with Actigraphy uses a small device called an actigraph to diagnose insomnia or trouble falling asleep. The actigraph is like a watch on your wrist, but rather than telling the time; it tracks your sleep and wake patterns.

The History of Sleep Studies

A doctor and scientist named Nathaniel Kleitman set up the first sleep lab at the University of Chicago in 1927. There, he and his students studied the regulation of sleep and the human circadian rhythm.

It was only in 1955 when Dr. William Dement, another student of Kleitman's, first documented sleep cycles. Since then, he has researched the relationship between REM sleep and dreams. More scientists have also helped contribute to the field of sleep studies, from Dr. Peter Hauri and his guide on sleep hygiene to Dr. Meir H. Kryger and his work on sleep apnea.

The technology used in sleep studies has also changed and improved over time. Nowadays, polysomnography is done using digital machines that are much smaller and more portable. Some machines can even be set up in the patient's home. Patients are also given a diary to document their sleep habits in the day of the study.

When You Might Need a Sleep Study

People who benefit from this test are those with insomnia or other sleep issues, like snoring. You may not even be aware that your sleep patterns are disruptive at night.

Certain Symptoms May Provide Clues:

Weight Gain

Sleep disorders are sometimes linked to weight gain. For example, sleep apnea can cause people to gain weight because it disrupts sleep quality, leading to fatigue during the day. This fatigue makes it difficult to exercise, leading to weight gain.

Anxiety or Depression

Sleep disorders can sometimes be mistaken for anxiety or depression. But if you have anxiety or depression, it can make sleep problems worse. Sometimes, treating the sleep disorder can help improve anxiety or depression.

Snoring at Night and Headaches in the morning

The most common sleep problem is obstructive sleep apnea, or irregular and stopped breathing while you sleep. Recent research has connected this condition to an increased risk of heart disease. Snoring is an important sign you may have sleep apnea. Headaches can also be a symptom of sleep apnea because it's not getting enough oxygen to the brain.

Memory Problems

Your memory may suffer if you have a sleep disorder. This is because sleep helps the brain consolidate memories. If you're not getting enough quality sleep, it can be difficult to learn new information or remember what you've learned.

Before going forward with a sleep study, make sure you have gone through our definitive guide to restful sleep to fix the everyday habits that might be at the root of your insomnia.

What it's like to go Through a Sleep Study

Sleeping in a lab, hooked up to the equipment, is not appealing, but a sleep study is easier and more comfortable than most people imagine. Sleep labs are set up to mimic hotel rooms, not sterile hospital rooms like you think. You will sleep alone in the room while a technician in another room records information collected by sensors.

Arriving in the evening—or possibly during the day if you work night shifts—you will change into pajamas before a tech attaches sensors to your head and body. The sensors have long wires coming from them so you can move freely while sleeping. They measure brain waves and body movements.

You may also have clips attached to a finger or an earlobe to measure blood oxygen and a stretchy belt across your chest or abdomen to record breathing. If you are being tested for sleep apnea, you may need to wear a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine.

It may seem like this is a lot to sleep with, but you will be surprised at how quickly it feels normal. The technician will also work with you as long as it takes to adjust all the equipment and sensors for maximum comfort.

Preparing for a Sleep Study

For the best results and to be most comfortable, there are some things you should do to prepare:

• Take a shower and wash your hair, so the sensors adhere completely.
• Don't drink caffeinated beverages for at least 8 hours before studying. This includes coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks.
• Eat your last big meal at least 2 hours before bedtime.
• Avoid napping during the day.
• Brush your teeth and use the restroom before getting hooked up to the equipment.
• Bring comfy PJs and something to read.
• Use a sleep app such as BetterSleep to unwind and fall asleep faster.
• Let your doctor know about any medications or supplements you take.

During the study, feel free to move as needed. Your doctor knows that you probably won't be getting your best night's sleep in this situation. If you need to go to the bathroom or have any issues, there is tech available throughout the night who can detach the equipment.

After the night, sleep specialists will have hundreds of pages of data to consider. Expect a couple of weeks before your doctor has the complete analysis. The information will help your doctor diagnose any conditions. It will also guide your treatment steps or recommendations for lifestyle changes so you can get a better night's sleep.

Once your doctor gets the results, you will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the diagnosis and next steps:

• If you have sleep apnea, your doctor will likely recommend a CPAP machine. This small device delivers air pressure through a mask while you sleep. It helps keep your airway open so you can breathe properly.
• If you have insomnia or restless legs syndrome, your doctor may prescribe medication or refer you to a therapist who specializes in sleep disorders. You may also be given some recommendations for lifestyle changes, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, exercising regularly, and establishing a regular sleep schedule.
• If your doctor sees that you have REM sleep behavior disorder, they will also likely prescribe medication to help control your symptoms. Medications to treat this disorder include clonazepam, melatonin, and sodium oxybate. Your doctor may also recommend some lifestyle changes like the above.
• If you have another sleep disorder, your doctor will develop a treatment plan based on the specific diagnosis. This plan may include sleep medicine.

Getting Better Sleep

While you wait for your results, there are some things you can do to get better sleep. Consider these following

Prioritize Sleep, No Matter the Circumstances

Sleep deprivation can affect your mood, energy, and ability to focus. It can also lead to serious health problems like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. If you're not getting enough sleep than normal, make it a priority to get more.

Set a Regular Sleep Schedule

One of the best things you can do for your body is to sleep and wake up on a regular and consistent schedule. This helps regulate your body's natural sleep rhythm, allowing you to maximize your sleep and get the best possible rest.

Have a Bedtime Routine

Don't go to bed from a high-energy activity. Wind down and prepare for sleep. This means doing something calming and giving yourself time to transition from the day's activities. Whether it's a massage, a warm bath, a book, or music, make sure that your body is well rested before you sleep.

Limit Screen Time Before Bed

Today's devices emit a lot of blue light. Your TV, smartphone, or smartwatch can disrupt your body's natural sleep rhythm, no thanks to blue light. To avoid this, limit screen time in the hours leading up to bedtime. It's best to stop using your devices at least 30 minutes before sleep.

Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment

A dark, quiet, and cool bedroom are ideal for good sleep. This may not always be possible if you have kids or share a room with others. When this is the case, you can invest in good earplugs and an eye mask to help you sleep better. You can also consider using a white noise machine to block out distractions.

Get Regular Exercise

Regular exercise may help improve sleep. Regular exercise may help improve sleep. Some research suggests that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as a brisk walk, can help prevent insomnia and help people get better sleep.

Limit Caffeine and Alcohol

When we drink coffee or alcohol, our body releases adrenaline that can interfere with sleep. Don't fret; you don't have to give up your beloved coffee or nightly glass of wine. Just limit your intake to earlier in the day so it doesn't interfere with your sleep schedule.

Manage Stress

Stress is a very common problem that causes sleep disorders. When stressed, our mind goes into overdrive, and our body releases a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol helps us deal with short-term stress, but it's not designed for much more.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Our diet and sleep quality are linked, even though most don't realize it. What we eat can significantly affect how well we sleep in the short and long term. Eating a healthy diet with certain nutrients can help us get a good night's sleep, while eating too much or too little of others can have the opposite effect.

Make Sure You Get Enough Vitamin D

Vitamin D, found in foods like eggs, fatty fish, and fortified milk, is important for many reasons. One of them is that it helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle. A lack of vitamin D has been linked to sleep disorders, such as insomnia and sleep apnea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I Really Need a Sleep Study?

Your doctor may recommend one if you have sleep disorder symptoms, such as snoring, fatigue during the day, insomnia, or sleep apnea. However, not everyone who has these symptoms will need a sleep study. Your doctor will consider your symptoms and medical history first.

What happens during a sleep study?

You will be asked to sleep in a special room at a sleep center. You will be hooked up to machines that monitor your brain activity, heart rate, breathing, and oxygen levels. The machines will also record your movement during the night.

How long does a sleep study take?

A sleep study usually takes place for one night. However, some sleep studies may be done over multiple nights.

What should I expect after a sleep study?

After the sleep study, your doctor will review the results and diagnose any sleep disorders. They will then develop a treatment plan. This may include lifestyle changes, medication, or a CPAP machine.

How much does a sleep study cost?

The cost of a sleep study varies depending on your insurance coverage. However, the average cost is between $1,000 and $3,000. Some insurance companies will cover the cost of a sleep study if it is deemed medically necessary. Check your insurance provider to see if your sleep study will be covered.

What are the risks of a sleep study?

There are no risks associated with sleep studies. The machines used during the study are safe and pose no risks. You may experience discomfort from the sensors and wires attached to your body. However, you can move around as you sleep, and a technician will be available if you need to detach any equipment.

Final Thoughts

Sleep studies are an important tool in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. If you think you may have a sleep disorder, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if a sleep study is right for you.