An overnight sleep study is easy to prepare for. A little planning helps you sleep as normally as possible, which gives your doctor the most accurate results. Here’s a simple checklist. Always follow any specific instructions from your sleep center or doctor first.
The day of your study
- Keep your normal routine. Wake up at your usual time and go about your day.
- Skip naps. Napping can make it harder to fall asleep at the lab.
- Cut off caffeine early. Avoid coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks and chocolate after lunch unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
- Avoid alcohol. Alcohol changes your sleep and breathing and can affect your results.
- Eat dinner before you arrive.
- Take your usual medications unless your doctor has told you to stop something. Never stop a prescription on your own; ask first if you’re unsure.
Before you leave home
- Shower and wash your hair. Clean, dry hair and skin help the sensors stick.
- Skip hair products, lotions and oils. Gels, sprays, conditioners and body lotions can keep the sensors from making good contact.
- Remove nail polish or acrylics from one finger if possible, since an oxygen sensor goes on your fingertip.
What to pack
- Comfortable two-piece pajamas or a T-shirt and shorts
- Your own pillow, if it helps you sleep
- Your medications and a list of what you take
- Toiletries and a change of clothes for the morning
- A book or something relaxing for before bed
- Your photo ID and insurance card
- Your CPAP mask, if you already use one and were asked to bring it
At the sleep lab
A sleep technologist will place small sensors on your head, face, chest and legs. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes and doesn’t hurt. Then you can read or relax until your normal bedtime. Our labs are open every night from 8:30 pm to 6:00 am, and a technologist is there with you all night if you need anything.
Worried you won’t sleep?
That’s the most common concern, and it’s completely normal. You don’t need a perfect night. Most people sleep enough for the study to be useful. For a full walk-through, read what to expect at a sleep study in Deerfield Beach.
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.
