Polysomnography (Sleep Study)

What is a Sleep Study?

A sleep study is a test conducted to diagnose various sleep disorders.

Why is Polysomnography (Sleep Study) Requested?

Polysomnography is primarily requested to diagnose sleep apnea. Additionally, it is used to diagnose other conditions that cause sleep-related breathing disorders, such as narcolepsy and other sleep disorders.

What Are the Types of Sleep Studies?

For obstructive sleep apnea, the first step is to conduct a polysomnography study on the first night to determine the severity of the patient's sleep apnea. If necessary, a second test called CPAP titration, which involves treating the patient with a positive pressure device, is performed. Both tests are conducted at night.

For narcolepsy, a Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is performed during the day to detect periods of daytime sleepiness.

What Parameters Are Measured During Polysomnography?

During polysomnography, various parameters are measured, including brain waves, eye movements, jaw movements, abdominal wall movements, leg movements, heart rate, snoring, breathing cessation, and oxygen saturation levels in the body.

How is Polysomnography (Sleep Study) Conducted?

For a polysomnography study, the patient arrives at the sleep laboratory in the evening. A technician attaches thin electrodes to the scalp to monitor brain waves, to the corners of the eyes to track eye movements, to the jaw to monitor muscle activity, to the chest wall to observe heart rhythm, and to the legs to monitor leg movements. Additionally, a belt is placed around the abdomen to monitor abdominal movements, and a nasal cannula is inserted to detect snoring and apnea.

An oxygen sensor is also attached to the finger to monitor oxygen saturation in the body. Once all these thin cannulas are connected to the transmitter at the bedside, the patient is expected to sleep. All data collected during sleep is transmitted to a computer in the technician's room throughout the night. After the patient wakes up in the morning, the electrodes and cannulas are removed, and the data is prepared for analysis.

What Diseases Can Be Diagnosed with a Sleep Study?

A sleep study can diagnose obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, mixed sleep apnea, snoring, narcolepsy, insomnia, parasomnias (such as night terrors and sleepwalking),REM sleep disorders, and periodic limb movement syndrome, among other sleep disorders.

How Long Does a Sleep Study Last?

A sleep study is conducted overnight and typically lasts 6-8 hours.

How Long Does It Take to Receive a Sleep Study Report?

The sleep study report is usually available within 3-7 days.

Which Doctor Reviews a Sleep Study?

A sleep study is reviewed by pulmonology specialists.

Sleep Study Costs

The cost of a sleep study varies depending on the hospital. In private hospitals and foundation universities, the cost ranges from approximately 1,500 to 4,000 lira.

What Should You Consider Before a Sleep Study?

• Try not to change your sleep routine for a few days before the test and aim to get enough sleep.
• Limit the consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages before the test, as these substances can negatively affect sleep quality and test results.
• If you take medications regularly, especially those that affect your sleep pattern, inform your doctor and discuss how to proceed.
• Fill out any forms, documents, or questionnaires requested by the sleep laboratory before the test.
• Wear comfortable and light clothing during the sleep study to help you feel at ease while sleeping.
• Before the test, clean your hair and skin to help the electrodes adhere better. The sleep laboratory staff will provide guidance on this.
• Avoid intense exercise a few hours before the test, as it can affect sleep quality and test results.

What Happens if Sleep Apnea is Diagnosed After Polysomnography?

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that usually requires treatment. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve sleep quality, and prevent long-term health issues. The treatment plan is determined based on the severity of the patient's sleep apnea, symptoms, and overall health condition.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

• CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) Therapy: In this treatment method, a mask is used to deliver air at a specific pressure to keep the airway open, facilitating breathing and preventing the interruptions in breathing caused by sleep apnea.
• Oral Appliance Therapy: This treatment involves the use of a specially made mouthguard (oral appliance). The mouthguard repositions the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. It is recommended for patients with mild sleep apnea or those who cannot or do not want to use a CPAP device.
• Lifestyle Changes: In addition to treatment, patients with sleep apnea may be advised to lose weight, reduce alcohol and tobacco consumption, change sleeping positions, and improve sleep patterns.
• Surgical Interventions: In appropriate cases, surgical interventions may be considered to open the airway. The suitability and risks of such procedures are evaluated based on the patient's condition.

During the treatment process, it is important for the patient to be regularly monitored and to adjust the treatment plan if necessary. Therefore, if sleep apnea is diagnosed, maintaining regular communication with a sleep specialist and adhering to the recommended treatment plan is crucial.