Sleep Study / Polysomnography
What Is A Sleep Study And Who Needs It?
Sleep study is an overnight observation of an individual’s sleep. This involves monitoring number of physiological parameters simultaneously like EEG (brain activity), the eye moments (EOG), the chin tone (EMG), breathing (nasal flow), breathing efforts, Oxygen level, heart rhythm (ECG).
Sleep is not a unitary phenomenon .It is divided into different stages like REM sleep (dreaming sleep) and Non REM sleep which is further subdivided into three stages. The nature has made sleep like an orchestra with different notes at different points and diseases like Sleep Apnea disrupt this rhythm. This can be easily deciphered by a well conducted comprehensive sleep study.
What are different levels (types) of Sleep studies?
There are 4 types –
Level 2 study is similar to level 1 but not attended by the sleep technologist and therefore there is a possibility of potential loss of data.
Level 3 study involves monitoring of just two parameters mainly the breathing and the Oxygen level without monitoring the brain activity and the sleep.
In most situations Level 1 study is required however sometime the Sleep physician may conduct a simpler test.
What are the different forms of Sleep Studies?
Diagnostic studies – In these only the diagnostic gear is used; this can be level 1 to level 4 study.
Titration studies – which involve titration with CPAP or the BiPAP :this can be performed only in level 1 study setting .
Sleep studies are generally conducted in a split night format in which the first part of the night is the Diagnostic arm and in the later half Therapeutic part where titration with CPAP is done. Split night studies are only possible with the level 1 format where a trained sleep technologist will conduct this study under the guidance of a Sleep Specialist.
Sleep study is a very powerful monitoring tool which gives us opportunity to peep into one’s mind and health. It’s utility goes much beyond diagnosing simple Sleep Apnea and extends to diagnosing conditions like periodic limb movement, Sleep architecture problems, Parasomnias, Complex Sleep Apneas, Bruxism, loss of REM Atonia etc.
“Eyes cannot see what our mind does not know” is old saying very apt for the field of Sleep Medicine in the region. Device companies in order to fuel the growth of devices are trivializing the sleep diagnostics pushing vendors to conduct sleep studies in a completely unregulated environment; the quality of these can put any regulator to shame. Nevertheless each patient need to be an empowered consumer and decide for themselves what is best for their health.
Sleep Apnoea Treatment Options: CPAP, APAP, BiPAP & MAS
Sleep apnoea and other sleep-related breathing disorders can be effectively managed using a range of evidence-based treatments. Depending on the severity of the condition and individual patient needs, different devices or therapies may be recommended.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
CPAP therapy delivers a constant and steady stream of air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep. It is one of the most commonly prescribed and effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnoea.
APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure)
APAP devices automatically adjust the air pressure throughout the night based on your breathing patterns. This allows for a more personalised and comfortable treatment experience while maintaining effective airway support.
BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure)
BiPAP provides two different pressure levels — a higher pressure when you breathe in and a lower pressure when you breathe out. This is often recommended for patients who find CPAP difficult to tolerate or require more specialised breathing support.
MAS (Mandibular Advancement Splint)
A Mandibular Advancement Splint is a custom-made oral device worn during sleep. It works by gently moving the lower jaw forward, helping to keep the airway open and reduce symptoms such as snoring and mild sleep apnoea.
Types of Sleep Studies We Offer
We currently offer Level 2 sleep studies, which are comprehensive, unattended sleep studies conducted in the comfort of your home.
Level 2 studies monitor multiple physiological parameters, including breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep activity. This type of study provides detailed and reliable data, making it suitable for diagnosing conditions such as obstructive sleep apnoea.
These studies offer a convenient alternative to in-lab testing while maintaining a high level of diagnostic accuracy.
