Many people are intimidated by the idea of a sleep study. They picture themselves in a cold, sparse room with sensors attached all over their bodies. In reality, sleep testing can be a very comfortable experience. At Jacksonville Sleep Center, we make sure our patients are as comfortable as possible so that we can get the most accurate results. When preparing for a sleep study, it’s important to know what type of study you will be doing. We provide both home sleep testing and sleep center testing.
Home Sleep Testing
Home sleep testing is when we provide you with a simple machine to take home and use in your own bed. You’ll be in a comfortable environment, which means that your sleeping patterns will be natural, or as close to possible, during the test. Aside from comfort, it also has the benefits of reduced cost and simplicity for the one undergoing the test.
For patients most likely to have obstructive sleep apnea, home testing may be the best choice because things are pretty straightforward. Those with other conditions and disorders, or with conditions such as pulmonary disease, neuromuscular diseases or congestive heart failure, home sleep testing is not the best choice.
Sleep Center Testing
This is done at the Jacksonville Sleep Center, where you’ll be monitored and cared for by our professional sleep team. This may be suggested to thoroughly study the possibility of sleep-related breathing disorders, assess sleep behaviors, determine the level of positive airway pressure needed to treat CPAP patients, or why a sleep disorder treatment hasn’t worked. The information gathered during these tests will be used for both diagnosis and treatment.
So for those who are scheduled for sleep testing, here are the necessary preparations:
Keep Your Routine
Stick to your regular routine on the day of the sleep test. Dr. Nassar will also inform you about which of your routine medications are fine to use on that day, or what medications you can bring and take in the sleep center.
There are a Few Things to Avoid
Naps and caffeine should be avoided on the day of the test. Coffee, tea, cola and chocolate are out. Alcohol as well. For those set for sleep center testing, avoid using gels or sprays beforehand as well as during your stay in the center as these can interfere with the sensors used for the study. Wash your hair with shampoo only.
No Nail Polish on Index Fingers
Remove nail polish from your index fingers as you may be using a pulse oximeter. The sensor is placed on one index finger and nail polish will interfere with its readings.
Bring What’s Necessary
Bring everything necessary for your normal nightly routine. Pack an overnight back and bring comfortable pajamas and a change of clothes for the morning. You can even bring your own pillow. Bring what you would bring for a stay at a hotel as you’ll have your own private room with a bathroom, ceiling fan, Wi-Fi and television, as we strive for a clean and comfortable environment for our patients.
Special Needs? Inform Staff Beforehand
If you have special concerns, be sure to inform the sleep center staff beforehand so they can best accommodate you and ensure that you’re at your comfiest!
Those are how you prepare for an overnight sleep study. Jacksonville Sleep Center has more detailed information on what happens during the study itself as well!
Contact Jacksonville Sleep Center to Schedule at Sleep Study
If you have or suspect you have a sleep disorder, contact Jacksonville Sleep Center today at (904) 854-6899 to schedule a sleep consultation.
