Making Your Sleep Lab Stay a Pleasant One
So, your sleep specialist or primary doctor just referred you to a sleep lab to test for a potential sleep disorder. You might be asking yourself what a sleep lab even is and don’t know what to expect. The good news is that you’re not alone. Millions of people test for sleep disorders such as sleep apnea at these facilities. At Sac Sleep & Breathing, we’re here to break down what to expect at a sleep lab and how to make your overnight stay more comfortable.
What’s a Sleep Laboratory?
A sleep lab is a medical facility specially designed to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders. You’ll spend the night hooked up to various monitors that’ll measure different aspects of your sleep, such as brain activity, REM sleep, and heart rate. Afterward, your specialist will analyze the data to reach an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.
Your Sleep Visit: Step-By-Step Guide
You’ll need to have an evaluation before visiting a sleep lab so that your doctor can better understand your health. It’s also a good idea to keep a sleep diary to log your sleep patterns, including what times you wake up and fall asleep. Be sure to arrive at your sleep lab around 8:00pm-9:00pm so that you have time to get comfortable in your private room.
Making Your Sleep Study Stay More Pleasant
A sleep study doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Leave the worrying to your sleep technician when it comes to measuring your sleep quality. The good news is that there are some practical things you can do to have a more pleasant sleep such as:
- Get Comfortable: Your sleep lab will provide you with a comfortable bed and pillow. However, if you have a favorite blanket or pillow, bring it with you! Feel free to also wear loose-fitting pajamas or a nightgown to stay comfortable while you sleep.
- Prepare Ahead of Time: Have a game plan set up before you go to a sleep lab. This can include having a bag of clothes, toiletries, and any medications. Make sure you have enough to get you through the next day without stress or worry.
- Bring Entertainment: You’ll have some downtime between monitoring and testing at a sleep lab. Consider bringing your favorite book, magazine, or something to keep you entertained. This can help you relax and unwind throughout the night.
- Be Honest: Let your sleep technician know if you have any concerns or questions. They are there to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible while you’re at the sleep lab. Don’t be afraid to ask them to explain the sleep study process.
You Did Your Sleep Study! Now What?
Your sleep study results will be analyzed by your sleep specialist to determine whether you’re suffering from sleep apnea. This information is also helpful in figuring out what treatment is right for you and any lifestyle changes you can make. At Sac Sleep & Breathing, Dr. Grivas provides oral appliance therapy with the revolutionary Vivos System.
A sleep study is an important step in diagnosing and properly treating symptoms associated with sleep apnea. By preparing ahead of time and making the most of your stay, you can make the experience more pleasant and help ensure that you get the best results possible. With the right kind of approach, you can get the help you need to improve your sleep.
