If your doctor has suggested a sleep study, or you’ve been wondering whether your snoring, restless nights or constant tiredness could be something more, you’re probably curious about what the test actually involves. The good news: a sleep study is painless, comfortable and one of the most useful tests in medicine. Here’s what to expect from a sleep study in Deerfield Beach, from your first call to your results.
What is a sleep study?
A sleep study, also called a polysomnogram, records what your body does while you sleep. Small sensors track your brain waves, breathing, oxygen levels, heart rhythm and movement through the night. Those readings help a board-certified sleep physician find out why you aren’t sleeping well, and whether a condition like sleep apnea, narcolepsy or restless legs syndrome is involved.
Step 1: Getting scheduled
Most sleep studies start with a referral from your primary care doctor or specialist, though you can also call us directly and we’ll help coordinate with your doctor. Our team verifies your insurance and lets you know whether an in-lab sleep study or a home sleep test is the best fit for your symptoms.
Step 2: Arriving for your overnight study
In-lab studies take place at night, in a private, quiet room set up to feel more like a bedroom than a hospital. Our labs are open every night from 8:30 pm to 6:00 am. When you arrive, a registered sleep technologist will:
- Walk you through the process and answer your questions
- Place small sensors on your scalp, face, chest and legs with gentle adhesive
- Add a light belt around your chest and a small sensor on your finger
- Make sure you’re comfortable before lights out
Nothing is painful, and there are no needles. Most people are surprised by how quickly they get used to the sensors.
Step 3: Sleeping (yes, really)
The most common worry we hear is “What if I can’t sleep?” You don’t need a perfect night. Most patients sleep enough for the technologist to gather useful information, and the readings from even a few hours can be very revealing. You can bring your own pillow, wear your usual pajamas and read before bed, just like at home.
Step 4: Morning and going home
You’ll usually be done early in the morning, with plenty of time to head home or to work. The sensors come off in a few minutes, and you can shower and get on with your day.
Step 5: Getting your results
A sleep physician reviews the hours of data from your study, and the results are shared with your doctor. If a sleep disorder is found, we’ll talk about next steps, which may include PAP therapy, an oral appliance or other treatment options. Because we offer diagnosis, treatment, supplies and follow-up under one roof, you won’t be left on your own after the test.
Why choose International Institute of Sleep?
Since 1999, International Institute of Sleep has helped thousands of South Florida patients sleep better. Our corporate headquarters is right here in Deerfield Beach, and we serve North Broward, South Broward and Palm Beach County through our locations in Deerfield Beach, Plantation and Lake Worth.
Book a sleep study in Deerfield Beach
Ready to get answers and better sleep? Call 1-800-481-3870 or request an appointment online. International Institute of Sleep is headquartered at 2151 W. Hillsboro Blvd., Suite 100, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442, and serves patients throughout Broward and Palm Beach counties.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider about your symptoms, and don’t stop or change a prescribed treatment without their guidance.
