Sleep is vital for our overall wellbeing and health. It affects every area of life; physical, emotional, and mental. Without sleep, these areas are vitally impacted and overall life quality begins to suffer. Therefore, if there is something inhibiting you from sleeping, then it's important to identify and rectify the problem. One diagnostic measure is a sleep study. If you or your doctor suspect that you have an underlying sleep disorder, then you may be referred for one. Some common causes of sleep disruptions are:

• Sleep apnea
• Insomnia
• Parasomnias (circadian rhythm disrupting conditions)
• Narcolepsy
• Restless leg syndrome

Sleep studies allow for formal diagnosis of sleep disorders such as these. Fortunately, sleep studies are fairly non-invasive. Some people tend to worry that they won't be able to sleep while doctors are assessing sleep, however, this is rarely an issue and overall comfort is important. Continue reading to learn more about how to get a sleep study. 

What is the Process for Getting a Sleep Study?

The process for getting a sleep study is straightforward:

• You either contact a sleep center or get a referral from your doctor 
• You may visit the sleep center and consult with sleep specialists to ask questions and go over the procedure
• You arrive at the sleep center before bed time
• The sleep study is conducted
• You leave in the morning
• Results are provided to your doctor usually within a week

After results are provided to your doctor, they will go over results with you and then work with you for appropriate sleep treatment.

How Does a Sleep Study Work?

During a sleep study, there are several primary areas in which you are monitored while undergoing a sleep evaluation:

• Sleep equipment that monitors various aspects of your sleep
• Observations by sleep specialists who monitor you while you sleep
• Biometric readings taken by sleep specialists

At the conclusion of your sleep evaluation, sleep specialists will compile the results from the sleep monitoring equipment, biometric readings, and observations, and send them to you doctor. Based on these results, your doctor may or may not give you a formal diagnosis.

How To Get a Sleep Study?

To get a sleep study, you should first contact your doctor. After assessing your symptoms, they can refer you for a sleep study. After receiving this referral, you may contact that center where we are able to answer questions, set up a time to conduct the sleep study, and set up a time to tour the facilty.

After you are satisfied, then the only thing left to do is come to the appointment. You will receive all need-to-know information ahead of time. 

Common Sleep Study FAQ

What should I bring to a sleep study?

A good rule of thumb is to pretend you are staying overnight at a spa or hotel. Bring things like:

• Comfy and appropriate sleeping attire
• Any medications you are required to take
• Other accessories that help you sleep well, such as a favorite pillow
• Any nighttime-related items, such as face wash or toothbrush
• A spare change of clothes 

Other than basics, there is nothing special you need to bring.

How long does a sleep study last?

Sleep studies typically last from late evening to the morning time.

Does insurance cover sleep studies?

Usually, health insurance covers sleep studies.

What if I can't sleep?

This is rarely a problem, as there are sleep aids that we can use to assist you in sleeping in some cases.

Sleep studies are extremely useful for diagnoses sleep disorders. If your or a loved one are concerned about sleeping issues, please click the orange button below to take a free online sleep test and talk with one of our sleep health professionals.