You have a sleep study scheduled and aren’t sure what to expect? Many people have questions, so we want to provide answers you need to put your mind at ease.
How do I prepare for the test?
Preparing for the test is as easy as packing an overnight bag. There are a few things you should do before you arrive at the facility. First, make sure to eat dinner before coming in. If you need to take medication, go ahead and take it, and also bring your medications with you. You’ll definitely want some comfortable clothes to sleep in and slippers if you’d like. When packing your bag be sure to include toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a comb. Books or other reading materials are good to have as you settle in for the night. Don’t forget to pack your insurance information.
Things to avoid
Please avoid caffeine for at least 12 hours before your test. Do not nap on the day of the test as we want you to be ready for sleep. Avoid using products like creams or oils on your face, hair, and skin. Also, if you have any weaves or extensions be sure to remove those so we can have access to the scalp.
What time do I come in for the test and when will the test start?
We ask that you arrive by 8 pm. The test will not begin as soon as you get there. You will be able to shower and prepare for bed and get as comfortable as you can.
Will I be comfortable?
We do our best to make sure you are as comfortable as possible. Your room will be equipped with your own bed and full bathroom. We provide pillows and blankets. You are free to watch tv or read until your normal bedtime. If you usually sleep during the day, we can make accommodations for that as well. Notify the Luna Sleep Center techs about any special needs you may have. People who have sensitive skin may have mild skin irritation due to the electrode adhesive. Please let us know if you have a latex allergy.
Will there be a lot of wires attached to me making it hard to sleep?
While it won’t be just like sleeping at home, we do hope that you will be comfortable enough to get some rest. Once you are ready for bed, our sleep tech will hook you up to be monitored and observe from an adjacent room. The wires are long enough to allow you to move around.
If any of the wires come off while you are sleeping, we will gently wake you to reattach the wire with as little interruption as possible. The only other time a sleep center tech will need to enter the room with you is if you need to use the restroom. They will disconnect your wires for you to use the restroom and reattach them when you return.
If you show signs of severe sleep apnea, then a tech will come in and place you on a continuous positive airway pressure machine, otherwise known as a CPAP for further observation.
How long will the test take?
The test will be over by 5:30 or 6 am. If you need to leave earlier, please let your sleep tech know. If you are excessively sleepy, please have someone available to drive you home.
When will I get my results?
First, we want to reassure you that this is not a test you can fail. This is a test to show us where your sleep problems are coming from. There are about 900 pages of data collected during your study that will be reviewed by a LUNA Sleep Center Physician. The results will be forwarded to the doctor who ordered your sleep study within a couple of days.
If it is determined that you need a CPAP machine and you were not placed on one on the night of your test we will ask you to return again for a test wearing a CPAP. If you do not need a CPAP machine then you will need to follow up with the doctor to discuss the next steps in diagnosing your sleep disorder.
Thank you for taking the time to check us out and look into our sleep study process. As always, you can ask us questions at any time. Our main goal is your comfort. If you still have questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us at 205-343-0004. Here’s to finding a way to help you get more quality rest!