If you think you might be suffering from sleep apnea but aren’t sure how to get tested, your doctor may be able to perform a polysomnogram test at a nearby center or even at home. Also known as a sleep study, a polysomnogram electronically notes specific physical activities as you sleep. The readings are then analyzed by a specialist to determine whether you may be suffering from a sleep disorder. Here’s what you can expect when undergoing a sleep study in Jacksonville, FL at the Jacksonville Sleep Center and what may be the best treatment option for you.

The Sleep Study Process

If in a sleep center, you’ll be assigned to a private bedroom close to a central monitoring area where technicians can study sleep patterns. You will be hooked up to surface electrodes, which send recorded electrical signals to measuring equipment outside. Generated by brain and muscle activity, these signals are recorded digitally. To measure your breathing, belts are placed around your chest and abdomen, whereas a bandage-like oximeter probe is placed on your finger to measure blood oxygen.

The equipment may look uncomfortable, but most patients have no trouble falling asleep. Nowadays, portable equipment is available for sleep apnea diagnosis in your home.

Other Sleep Apnea Tests

Other types of testing to study sleep patterns include:

  • EEG (electroencephalogram): used to measure and record brain waves.
  • EMC (electromyogram): used to record muscle activity such as twitching and grinding and to analyze the REM stage of sleep. In REM, the brain undergoes heightened activity due to intense dreams.
  • EOC (electrooculogram): used to record eye movements that determine sleep stages.
  • ECG (electrocardiogram): used to record heart rate and rhythm.
  • Nasal airflow sensors
  • Snore microphones

The Benefits of a Sleep Study

Overall, a sleep study takes the guesswork out of determining whether or not you have sleep apnea. If you find yourself to be suffering from the condition, we can help source a CPAP machine around Jacksonville. A CPAP consists of a pump, hose, and mask, worn overnight to provide a steady flow of oxygen at a slightly higher pressure.

The machine helps keep your airways open and allows for sounder sleep. Getting diagnosed early can help avoid complications caused by OSA (obstructive sleep apnea).

The Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

We previously mentioned OSA, which is a condition you can develop if milder sleep apnea is left untreated. This can put you at a higher risk of diabetes and has been linked to obesity. Other illnesses related to sleep apnea include:

  • Heart disease
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Strokes
  • Hypertension
  • Chronic headaches

Because of the lack of sleep caused by sleep apnea, this can affect your performance at work or school, lead you to overconsume sugar products, or put you at risk of accidents due to slower reflexes.

Sleep Apnea Testing and Diagnosis in Jacksonville, FL

If you’ve noticed a negative change in your sleeping habits, give us at Jacksonville Sleep Center a call. We can help you come to a thorough sleep apnea diagnosis and provide you with treatment and protection from serious complications. Schedule your appointment today!