Did you know that nearly 70 million Americans suffer from a sleep disorder? Our sleep problems in this country are so massive that the CDC even classifies our lack as an epidemic.
That’s why so many scientists continue to study American sleeping habits. Are you having sleep issues? Your doctor may want to observe you through the night.
It seems easy, but these studies can be nerve-wracking. You’ve no doubt wondered, “What if I can’t sleep during a sleep study?”
Read on to find out all about sleep studies and how your doctors will handle a possible case of restlessness.
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What Is a Sleep Study?
A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is an examination of your nighttime behaviors. Doctors conduct these sleep labs to observe possible sleep disorders, like sleep apnea and sleepwalking.
These issues are often unidentifiable during the day, so your doctor may want to observe you while you sleep to make an official prognosis.
What Happens During a Study?
These exams occur overnight and are non-invasive. They usually occur in a hospital or laboratory with space for an overnight stay.
During the exam, an EEG monitors your brain activity during the REM and NREM sleep cycles. Your doctor will also monitor your blood’s oxygen level, eye movement, limb movement, heart rate, and snoring.
How Does a Study Begin
You’ll arrive at the lab like sleepinsights.com, or hospital during the evening hours. Doctors and nurses will attach all monitoring systems. You’ll then be lead to your room equipped with a bed.
In the hours before sleep, you’re encouraged to relax in bed and read. Your doctor will stay in an adjacent room reading the monitor feedback and observing symptoms.
What Happens if You Have to Use the Bathroom?
It’s not uncommon for healthy adults to use the restroom during the night. If you have to relieve yourself, you can notify your doctor. A nurse will remove any sensors and reattach them when you return.
What if I Can’t Sleep During a Sleep Study?
Your doctor will give you strict instructions to follow during the day leading up to your study. You will refrain from any caffeine after lunch and any alcohol.
Naps during the day are also discouraged.
Though most people find they sleep better than expected, there are cases where a person cannot fall asleep. If that happens, your doctor may give you a light dose of melatonin or Benadryl to induce sleep.
Don’t Worry About Sleep Studies
Your doctor knows you may not be able to sleep as soundly during a study as you would at home. That’s ok. Make sure to stay relaxed and bring plenty of good reading material.
You ask, “What if I can’t sleep during a sleep study?” Your doctors are prepared for this and will guide you to a restful sleep!
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