Sleep Studies FAQs

What Is a Sleep Study

A sleep study is also known as polysomnography. Polysomnography is a testing procedure that measures a variety of physical activities during a sleep session, such as brain functions and breathing. In the picture to the right, you will see all of the “signals” as they appear during a sleep study. It is absolutely crucial for overall health to have “normal sleep” that is appropriate in duration and efficiency. Please keep in mind that individual needs can vary from person to person.

How Long Is the Wait Time to Get an Appointment?

Our booking wait times usually run about 5-6 weeks. In addition, the Sleep Center keeps a cancellation list for your earlier convenience.

How Do I Make an Appointment for a Sleep Study?

Your doctor can order a study at the Newton-Wellesley Sleep Center by completing an order form and faxing it to the Sleep Center at 617-243-6776 or by calling us at 617-243-5699.

Will Insurance Cover My Study and Appointments?

In most cases, your insurance will cover your sleep study. Please be aware that Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO plans and Tufts PPO and HMO plans require insurance pre-authorizations. Insurance pre-authorizations can be obtained through your physicians’ offices.

How Do I Prepare for My Study?

Follow these steps in advance of your sleep study:

• Maintain a regular sleep wake schedule for several days before going to the sleep lab.
• DO NOT NAP the day of your study.
• Avoid caffeine after 12 noon. Since you are sleeping in an unfamiliar environment, it is better to be somewhat tired.
• A reminder email will be sent out prior to your study appointment.
• There is no prep you need to do before coming for a sleep study.

Should I Take a Shower Before the Study?

Yes. You may find that a shower before arriving at the sleep center will make you feel more relaxed. Wash and dry your hair, and do not apply any sprays, oils or gels. Also, we advise you not to apply any body lotions, oils, or makeup to your skin.

What Should I Bring the Night of My Sleep Study?

Bring any medications that are needed during the night (even something simple like Tums), as the sleep technologists do not give out any medications. You should bring something comfortable to sleep in.

It Sounds Like an Involved Test With Equipment. How Will I Possibly Be Able to Sleep?

Most people sleep reasonably well during sleep studies so that we can obtain a reliable sample of the individual’s sleep pattern. The sensors are applied so that you can move easily in your sleep, change body positions freely while in bed, and use the bathroom. The sleep rooms are set up like normal, comfortable bedrooms, and our staff makes the environment as comfortable as possible. Patients can control the bedroom’s temperature as well.

Will the Sensor Devices or Tests Hurt?

No. This is a painless and noninvasive (no needles) testing procedure. Sometimes, as a result of rubbing the skin or application of the electrodes, there is some mild skin irritation.

What If I Have Difficulty Falling Asleep?

If you typically have difficulty falling asleep in an unfamiliar environment, we recommend bringing a book. There is a television in each of the sleep testing rooms. Some patients have had success with over-the-counter sleep aids. If you need them, we recommend that you bring your own over-the-counter sleep aids with you.

What Happens If I Have to Use the Bathroom During My Study?

Every bedroom has an open intercom that will enable you to communicate with our technologist at any time. If you need to use the bathroom during the night, the technologist will assist and disconnect you temporarily.

How Many Hours Do I Need to Sleep for You to Get an Accurate Reading?

We like to obtain six hours of recorded data with as much sleep recorded as possible. In many cases, we can make a diagnosis with just a few hours of sleep recorded.

What If I Feel Sick or Have an Emergency During My Test?

Newton-Wellesley sleep center technicians are trained in basic life support. Participants in sleep studies have their vital statistics monitored closely throughout the study.

What Is a CPAP Device?

CPAP is the gold-standard treatment for sleep apnea. Fixed-pressure CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) was first invented in 1981. Since that time, these devices have become more advanced and portable. The modern units are smaller, quieter, and offer more features to enhance patient care, such as gradually increasing pressure to the target dose (a “ramp”), heated humidification, and the ability to monitor response.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an intermittent problem in which the upper airway closes and interferes with breathing and sleep, much like a swinging door closes shut. CPAP maintains steady air pressure to prevent the upper airway from collapsing, just as a breeze could hold open a swinging door.

CPAP delivers air through tubing connected to a mask worn over the nose and/or mouth. The comfort and fit of the mask is crucial to minimize air leaks or discomfort. In most cases, treatment of OSA leads to an increase in quality of life for the patient and their sleep partner.

Learn more about CPAP therapy.

Can Staff Members at the Sleep Lab Tell Me More About My Conditions?

The sleep lab staff members perform and educate you regarding the sleep study, sleep disorders, and various treatment options. You can discuss the results of your sleep study can be discussed with a board-certified sleep doctor if you request a sleep consult.

What Will Be My Wake-Up Time?

We will wake you at 6 a.m. If you need to be somewhere at a certain time, please let us know when you arrive in the center so we can accommodate your request. Patients typically leave the Sleep Center between 6:30 and 7 a.m.

What Happens After the Sleep Study?

Your test will be scored and then reviewed by a doctor specializing in sleep medicine. We will send a report with recommendations to your doctor within 2-3 weeks.

When Will My Results Be Ready, and How Do I Get Them?

Sleep study reports will be available within 2-3 weeks after you complete your study. We send these reports directly to your referring doctor.