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Polysomnograms(PSG)
--
or sleep studies
are used to diagnose problems of excessive fatigue,
sleepiness, snoring, or restless sleep. Patients are monitored
while they sleep for brain wave patterns, eye movements, muscle
tension, air flow and respiratory effort, oxygen levels and heart
beat.
How
do I get a sleep study?
A physician
referral is needed to obtain a sleep study. Your family physician
can provide this for you.
Before you talk
to your doctor about a sleep study, it is a good idea to keep a
1-2 week journal of your sleep habits including the time you go
to bed, how long it takes to fall asleep, the number of times you
awaken during the night, the time you get out of bed in the morning,
if you feel refreshed when you wake up and any naps taken or needed
throughout the day.
Although you
will spend the night, a sleep study is considered an outpatient
procedure. Most insurance companies cover sleep studies but it is
a good idea to check with your individual carrier.
You can obtain
more information on a sleep diary on the National Sleep Foundation
website. You can also call the MGHS sleep Lab at 906-225-3565
or 1-800-562-9753, extension 3565 for more information. You can also email us at sleeplab@mgh.org.
Irregular sleep
patterns may contribute to overweight. The latest research on sleep
deprivation shows a definite link between appetite control and lack
of sleep, caused by hormonal changes. To find out more on weight
management visit our weight
management web site.
Sleep
Test
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