How To Participate in a Sleep Study

Is insomnia or sleep apnea keeping you up all night? If so, your doctor probably suggested a sleep study. These studies can get to the bottom of whatever your sleep problem is and help you get back to rest. If you haven't spoken to a doctor and wonder if you have a sleep problem, check out this simple sleep quiz.

Follow these steps and you can participate in a sleep study to benefit your health.

1. Talk to your doctor. In most cases, participation in a sleep study should be recommended by your physician. If you are having consistent trouble with sleep, consult your doctor and find out if a sleep study is right for you.
2. Schedule the appointment. Sleep studies will take you away from your routine for at least one full night, so be sure to schedule the appointment at a time when you do not have to be up early and when it is convenient for your family life.
3. Prepare for your appointment. Since sleep studies occur at night, you will need to be away from home overnight. Plan in advance to have your husband home if you have kids or hire a babysitter if necessary. Some sleep studies require that you read materials or watch a video before you arrive to the study. Follow the sleep center directions regarding preparation.
4. Limit caffeine intake. During the day before your sleep study, try to limit your caffeine intake. Caffeine is a stimulant and often keeps you awake.
5. Bring comfortable sleepwear. You will be watched while you sleep, which makes many participants uncomfortable. Select night clothes that you will be comfortable in and that offer adequate cover while you sleep.
6. Relax while the technician readies the equipment. Often there will be several machines in the room with you that are used to study your heart rate, brain patterns, blood pressure and other reactions. Do not become tense while the technician attaches electrodes and other machines, as this may make falling asleep difficult.
7. Follow your normal nighttime routine as closely as possible. Bring toiletries and reading material with you. If you normally read before bed, bring a book so you will be able to settle into sleep.
8. Sleep. When you are tired, do not fight the urge to sleep. Relax your body and clear your mind so that you may fall asleep normally.
9. You may receive treatment the same night as the study or another night. Communicate with your sleep technician about what the procedure is and what steps you have to follow.

Sleep studies are often used to diagnose sleep problems, including sleep apnea and possible causes for insomnia. If your doctor recommends a sleep study, the procedure is fairly simple. After all, you should be asleep for most of it!