We strive to provide our patients with the best care. We want your experience with us to be comfortable and stress-free. Below are some answers to our most commonly asked questions, so you can feel 100% confident and informed.
Polysomnography: Our Sleep Center’s Specialty
At Gwinnett Sleep, our board-certified sleep specialists provide in-office and at-home sleep studies for our clients.
What is a sleep study?
A sleep study, also known as a polysomnography, is a comprehensive recording procedure designed to identify and analyze different sleep stages to aid in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. During this process, various parameters such as brain waves, heart rate, breathing patterns, and muscle activity are monitored and recorded. Subsequently, a specialized sleep professional meticulously reviews and interprets the extensive data collected, which can span over 800 pages, to provide valuable insights and recommendations for optimal treatment strategies.
When Do You Need to Consult a Sleep Specialist?
If you struggle with sleep over a long period of time, it’s time to consult a sleep specialist. Seeking a specialist could also be beneficial if you believe you are experiencing sleeping disorders, like insomnia, sleep apnea, parasomnias, sleep motion disorders, or other related sleep conditions.
Other indications include:
- Struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep
- Snoring, choking, or gasping for air while sleeping
- Unwanted sleep movements, like sleepwalking, sleep-talking, the urge to move your legs, sleep paralysis, etc.
- Waking up with a headache, sore throat, sore jaw, or any other pain
- Excessive tiredness, even after a full night’s sleep
- Persistent napping or falling asleep while at work, school, or while driving
What to Expect at Your Sleep Study
We strive to provide our patients with the best care. We want your experience with us to be comfortable and stress-free. Below are some answers to our most commonly asked questions, so you can feel 100% confident and informed.
Q: How long is a sleep study?
A: The process typically takes 6 to 8 hours. While most sleep studies occur at night, they are available during the day for patients who routinely work a third shift. Gwinnett Sleep’s day services include the Multiple Sleep Latency Test and Maintenance of Wakefulness Test.
Q: Where do Gwinnett Sleep’s sleep studies take place?
A: The sleep studies are performed in private rooms that are comfortable and quiet. Sleep rooms at Gwinnett Sleep are equipped with Sleep Number beds or Tempur-Pedic mattresses with reclining functions, as well as televisions with Direct TV. Full bathrooms with showers are also available.
Q: How is a sleep study performed?
A: Sleep studies are performed by applying small metal discs (electrodes) to the head and skin with an adhesive. Breathing is measured by flexible elastic belts positioned on the chest and abdomen. Blood oxygen saturation is measured by a clip on the index finger or earlobe (pulse oximeter). This procedure is painless and designed to be as pleasant as possible.
Q: How long will it take to receive sleep study test results?
A: After your study is performed, we will evaluate your results and you will receive a final report within five business days. We will then develop a custom treatment plan and schedule any required studies, tests, or follow-ups.
If you have more specific questions regarding your sleep study, please contact us and we’d be happy to answer your questions.
Schedule an Appointment with a Sleep Specialist
As sleep specialists, it is our job to improve your quality of sleep and overall health. At Gwinnett Sleep, we pride ourselves in going above and beyond for you. Our physicians and staff work hard to learn and implement state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and treatment strategies that benefit you and your needs. You can feel good knowing you’re in good hands. To schedule your consultation appointment, contact us today.