Better sleep can be key to better health.

You may benefit from the attention of sleep medicine specialists if you:

• Feel your sleep isn't satisfying
• Have trouble falling asleep or staying awake
• Walk, talk, moan, snore or grind your teeth during sleep
• Have been told your legs twitch or kick at night
• Lie awake at night feeling worried or anxious
• Awaken suddenly gasping for breath
• Feel extremely sleepy during the day
• Have sudden attacks of physical weakness

Sleep Studies Help Evaluate Your Situation

Your doctor may recommend a sleep study (polysomnogram). The study helps physicians diagnose conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia and restless legs syndrome.

How to Prepare

To make sure you get the most from your sleep study, avoid alcohol or caffeine before the test. Take a sleep aid only if recommended by your doctor.

What to Expect

You'll spend your typical sleeping period-night or day-in a comfortable, private room at Floyd Valley Healthcare’s homelike sleep labs. After you arrive, a technician will place sensors on your scalp, face, chest and limbs to monitor brain waves, snoring, muscle activity, heart rate and breathing as you sleep. A video camera may record your movements.

After the Test

After the test, you may return to your typical daily activities. Your doctor will receive the results of the study and advise you on next steps.

Insurance Coverage

Most insurance plans cover sleep studies. Check with your plan provider to verify coverage.

Home Sleep Apnea Testing

If a doctor determines you likely have obstructive sleep apnea, and you have no other significant medical conditions, the physician may recommend home sleep apnea testing. You'll sleep at home while wearing equipment that records data about your breathing during sleep.