Polysomnography (Sleep Study)

Polysomnography, known as a sleep study, is a test used to diagnose sleep disorders. Polysomnography records your brain waves, the oxygen level in your blood, and your heart rate and breathing during sleep. It also measures eye and leg movements.

A sleep study may be done at a sleep disorders unit within a hospital or at a sleep center. The test is usually performed at night. But it may be done during the day for shift workers who usually sleep in the daytime.

In addition to diagnosis, a sleep study might help determine a treatment plan if you’ve been diagnosed with a sleep disorder. It also might be used to adjust your treatment.

Sometimes you may be able to do the sleep study at home. Home sleep apnea tests are used to help diagnose obstructive sleep apnea.

If you’re doing a sleep study from home, there are different types of devices that may be used. Each device uses a different combination of sensors. Home sleep apnea tests generally record your breathing rate and airflow, as well as oxygen levels and heart rate. One style also includes information on blood vessels.