A polysomnography (PSG) test is performed when you are asleep to diagnose if you are suffering from a rest disorder like sleep apnea. The test is conducted in a lab where a technician records your data about your sleep patterns, brain waves, heart rate, eye movement, breathing rate, and blood oxygen levels

1. What should you expect when
going for a PSG test?

2. A polysomnography (PSG) test is performed when you are asleep to diagnose
if you are suffering from a rest disorder like sleep apnea. The test is
conducted in a lab where a technician records your data about your sleep
patterns, brain waves, heart rate, eye movement, breathing rate, and blood
oxygen levels. The study registers your body’s shift from rapid eye movement
sleep to non-rapid eye movement sleep. Observing these cycles and body
movements occurring during the transition can help identify the disruptions
in sleep patterns.

3. When do I need polysomnography?
Doctors use polysomnography tests to diagnose rest disorders, especially
sleep apnea. If you are experiencing signs like sleepiness during the day,
frequent episodes of waking up during the night, ongoing loud snoring, and
restless sleep, he may recommend undergoing the tests.
Besides sleep apnea, other sleep disorders that can be diagnosed by
polysomnography are:
• Narcolepsy, where patients experience sleep attacks and drowsiness
during the day.
• Chronic insomnia prevents the person from falling or staying asleep at
night.
• Restless leg syndrome, where the patient experiences uncontrolled flexing
and extension of legs while sleeping.

4. How do I prepare for polysomnography?
Here are a few ways you can prepare to undergo a polysomnography test:
• When you are preparing for a polysomnography test, avoid consuming
caffeine or alcohol in the afternoon or on the evening of the test. It can
keep you awake or lead to restless sleep at night.
• Avoiding sedatives is recommended before going for a polysomnography
test. Since they can affect your sleep patterns and worsen rest disorders,
the chemicals can impact your results.
• If you are taking any medicines, inform your doctor. Do not discontinue
the meds without consulting with your healthcare professional first.
• If you are used to falling asleep with your pillow or bedsheet, carry them
to the sleep lab.
• Do not have a heavy meal if you have a sleep study at night. It can disrupt
sleep and lead to restlessness.
• Take your pyjamas and tee shirts to the sleep lab. It is recommended to
sleep in clothes you feel comfortable in to ensure a good night’s rest.

5. What to expect during polysomnography?
A sleep study helps evaluate the quality of sleep. Here's what to expect
during a typical polysomnography exam:
• Arrival: The sleep centre staff will show you to your room and explain the
procedure. You will need to change into your sleepwear and fill out some
paperwork.
• Attaching sensors: The PSG technician will attach sensors to your scalp,
face, chest, and legs using adhesive. These sensors measure brain waves,
eye movements, muscle activity, heart rate, and breathing.

6. • Lights out: Once the technician has confirmed all sensors are working,
lights are turned off, and you are asked to sleep. A camera and
microphone in the room allow technicians to monitor your movements
and breathing.
• Morning wake-up: The technician will wake you up in the morning and
remove the sensors.
The PSG report provides information about the quantity and quality of sleep
study , the presence of sleep disorders, and their severity. Following PSG,
treatment options may be discussed with your doctor based on the results.

7. Thank You