For those dealing with irregular or abnormal sleep, it’s important to reveal the presence of a sleep disorder so that effective treatment may be given. Fortunately, many useful methods for sleep disorder diagnosis exist, and below we’ll outline some available options.
Overnight Oximetry
This simple method of sleep disorder diagnosis requires a clothespin-shaped probe to be worn by the patient on their finger or earlobe. The probe measures oxygen levels and heart rate during sleep to help reveal the prevalence of nocturnal breathing disorders.
Polysomnography (PSG)
Considered the gold standard for sleep disorder diagnosis, a PSG involves a visit to a sleep center where patients are monitored during an overnight stay. EEG’s and EKG’s are conducted, while respiration, oxygen levels, muscle tone, eye movements, and extremity movements are all monitored. Video and audio recordings along with tests help doctors to provide accurate sleep disorder diagnosis for patients suffering from anything from restless leg syndrome to sleep apnea while ruling out other causes of insomnia.
Titration Study
A technician will gradually increase CPAP pressure delivered through a soft mask to the level that eliminates most or all episodes of cessation of breathing. This study is conducted during PSG and is ideal for those with sleep apnea.
Multiple Sleep Latency Testing (MSLT)
MSLT is often referred to as a “nap study,” and they take place in a similar setting and format as PSG’s. These are ideal for identifying causes of excessive sleepiness.
Actigraphy
Actigraphy is the measurement of activity with the use of a small, wristwatch-sized device. These devices help determine whether disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle exist, as in the case of circadian rhythm disorders.
Sleep Diary
Sleep diaries are paper records or logs kept for documenting patterns of sleep and wakefulness. They are especially useful for sleep disorder diagnosis in children.
Home Study
Because most individuals sleep better at home than in sleep centers, new efforts are developing to create more effective means of sleep disorder diagnosis at home.
Jacksonville Sleep Center
Diagnosing and addressing a sleep disorder with your physician can go a long way to improving your quality of life. At the Jacksonville Sleep Center, we specialize in helping patients across Northeast Florida get the great sleep they need!
We offer the latest options for sleep disorder diagnosis, assessment, and treatment. If you are experiencing sleep disorder symptoms, our physicians and team of specialists would love to see how we can help. Contact us today to learn more and set up an assessment!
