28/08/2020
Polysomnography
Polysomnography (sleep study) is a used to diagnose sleep disorders. It records brain waves, oxygen level in blood, heart rate and breathing patterns, snoring and other noises as well as eye and body movements and position.
Polysomnography may be done to check:
• Sleep apnea or sleep-related breathing disorder (fitful breathing during sleep)
• Periodic limb movement disorder (involuntary flexing and extending of legs while sleeping)
• Narcolepsy (daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep)
• REM sleep behavior disorder (acting out of dreams)
• Unusual behaviors during sleep
• Unexplained chronic insomnia (consistent trouble falling or staying asleep)
For a polysomnography, patient arrives at the sleep center in the evening and stays overnight. The sleeping area has a low-light video camera and audio system for . Sensors are placed on the scalp, temples, chest and legs. These are connected by (long) wires to a computer. A clip is placed to monitor blood oxygen level. Positive airway pressure (PAP) machine may be tried to deliver a stream of air to enhance breathing.
Polysomnography is a non-invasive, test.
Prepared by
Ms Heer Thosani
Volunteer (Student intern)