Q: Which doctor performs a polysomnography test?
A: Your doctor will refer you to a neurophysiologist who will conduct the test in the sleep disorder unit of the hospital or a specialized sleep study center.
Q: Are sleep studies done at home accurate?
A: With regard to sleep disorders, PSG tests done in the hospital setting give the best and most accurate results.
Q: What is sleep apnea?
A: It is a serious sleep disorder when a person’s breathing stops several times during sleep and can disrupt oxygen supply to vital organs. It can potentially cause heart attacks and stroke.
Q: What is the normal sleep pattern of persons?
A: A person without any sleep disorder typically shifts between non-REM and REM sleep about every 90 minutes, having about 4-6 cycles every night on average.
Q: What is meant by level 3 sleep test?
A: A Level 3 Sleep Test is a portable sleep test done in the patient’s home. The test is used to monitor uncomplicated sleep apnea but cannot diagnose other sleep disorders.
Q: What is narcolepsy?
A: People with narcolepsy feel extremely drowsy during the day and suddenly fall asleep during routine activities without realizing it.
Q: What are some of the parasomnias commonly diagnosed?
A: Examples of parasomnias include sleep-related eating disorder, sleep paralysis, sleepwalking, nightmares, sleep aggression, and REM sleep behavior disorder.
