Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a sleep study? (AKA polysomnogram)
A: A polysomnogram is a test, which measures bodily functions during sleep. In order to measure these body functions, surface electrodes need to be placed on the head, chest, above and below the eyes, on and under the chin, on the lower leg, arm, near the nose and mouth, on the ribcage, and attached to a finger. The test results are used to obtain objective information about the quality of sleep to better define your sleep problem.
Q. How can I sleep with all these things on me?
A. Surprisingly, most people sleep well. The body sensors are applied in a manner that will allow you to turn and move during your sleep. Generally, you will not be aware that you are wearing the devices after they have been on for a short time; many patients report that they actually sleep better here than at home.
Q. Will the sensor device hurt?
A. No. Sometimes there are mild, temporary irritations because the skin is being rubbed. You may experience temporary discomfort associated with the PES procedure; however, this does not generally cause any significant pain.
Q. What should I expect?
A. We will apply electrodes and sensors over a period of 1-3 hours with frequent breaks. You may watch television during this procedure. We will also provide instructions on CPAP and BiPAP usage. You may go to sleep at your normal bedtime within the constraints of the sleep protocol. During the recording process, your sleeping patterns will be observed, and a polysomnographic technologist will assist you as needed during the entire recording process. We typically wake patients up at around 5:30am-7:30am, unless an earlier wake-up time is desired. Please keep in mind that the equipment takes 20 minutes to remove.
Q. Will I be given a drug to help me sleep?
A. In most cases, sleeping pills are not needed, but if you are having trouble falling asleep, we may consider using a medication to help you sleep. Bring your sleeping pills if you have any. Remember, a sleep study is only a test to see if there is any abnormal cardio-respiratory or EEG function.
Q. Do I need to change the way I take my medication?
A. No change is necessary, continue taking your current medications.
Q. What is the next step after I have the sleep study?
A. The record of your sleep test will probably be about 1,000 epochs long, and is stored on a compact disk. It will be analyzed in detail by a technologist and interpreted by a physician. The information will then be sent to the patient, referring physician and primary care physician. Please make a follow-up appointment to see your referring physician two weeks after your study date to discuss your sleep study results and treatment options.
Q. Is the sleep test covered by my insurance?
A. Sleep testing is covered by most of the insurance carriers. We recommend that you check with your insurance company about the details regarding coverage for sleep testing, treatment, and follow-up care (durable medical equipment). We will provide medical descriptions of the tests provided if this is useful for insurance purposes. If you have any insurance questions or concerns, please contact us at 650.636.9396.
Q. What should I bring to the sleep center?
A. Please go here for the list of what to bring and what not to bring.