Sleep Studies;
What are they, do you need one and what can they detect?
At Sleepco, we offer level 2 - 4 sleep studies which are capable of identifying disorders such as obstructive and central sleep apnea, respiratory-related awakenings, abnormal sleep patterns, and disrupted sleep cycles.
If you often feel tired, lack energy, or wake up feeling unrested, a sleep study can help to identify physiological anomalies affecting your rest.
We offer sleep tests from the comfort of your own home using certified third party sleep specialists.
Understanding Polysomnographic Sleep Studies.
Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human health, yet many people struggle with sleep disorders that can significantly impact their quality of life. Polysomnographic sleep studies are essential diagnostic tools used to identify and understand these disorders. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of sleep studies, specifically focusing on levels 1, 2, 3, and 4, and the conditions they can diagnose. We will also discuss the resources available at Sleepco for conducting these studies and briefly touch on more sophisticated sleep studies like CPAP Titration and the Multiple Sleep Latency Test.
What is a Polysomnographic Sleep Study?
A polysomnographic sleep study is an overnight test used to diagnose sleep disorders. It records various physiological parameters during sleep, including brain activity, eye movements, muscle activity, heart rate, breathing patterns, and oxygen levels in the blood. These studies are typically conducted in a sleep lab or at home, depending on the type of study.
Types of Sleep Studies
Level 1 Sleep Study (In-Lab Polysomnography)
Description:
A Level 1 sleep study, also known as in-lab polysomnography, is the most comprehensive type of sleep study. It is conducted overnight in a sleep lab under the supervision of a sleep technician.
What It Includes:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) to monitor brain activity
- Electrooculogram (EOG) to track eye movements
- Electromyogram (EMG) to measure muscle activity
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) to record heart rate and rhythm
- Respiratory effort sensors to monitor breathing
- Pulse oximetry to measure blood oxygen levels
- Audio and video recording to capture snoring and body movements
Conditions Diagnosed:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
- Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)
- Narcolepsy
- REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)
- Insomnia
Best Candidates:
Patients with complex or severe sleep disorders, those who have not responded to initial treatments, or those requiring detailed analysis of multiple physiological parameters.
Level 2 Sleep Study (Comprehensive At-Home Polysomnography)
Description:
A Level 2 sleep study is similar to a Level 1 study but is conducted at home. It provides a comprehensive analysis of sleep patterns and is less intrusive than an in-lab study.
What It Includes:
- Portable EEG, EOG, EMG, and ECG devices
- Respiratory effort sensors
- Pulse oximetry
- Audio recording for snoring
Conditions Diagnosed:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
- Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)
Best Candidates:
Patients who require a comprehensive sleep study but prefer the comfort and convenience of their own home. It is also suitable for those who may have difficulty sleeping in a lab environment.
Level 3 Sleep Study (Home Sleep Apnea Testing)
Description:
A Level 3 sleep study, also known as Home Sleep Apnea Testing (HSAT), is a simplified version of a polysomnographic study conducted at home. It focuses primarily on diagnosing sleep apnea.
What It Includes:
- Respiratory effort sensors
- Pulse oximetry
- Nasal airflow sensors
- Snoring microphone
Conditions Diagnosed:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
Best Candidates:
Patients with a high pre-test probability of sleep apnea, those who do not have significant comorbid conditions, and those who prefer a less complex and more convenient testing method.
Level 4 Sleep Study (Overnight Oximetry)
Description:
A Level 4 sleep study is the simplest form of sleep study, often referred to as overnight oximetry. It primarily measures oxygen saturation levels in the blood during sleep.
What It Includes:
Pulse oximetry
Conditions Diagnosed:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
- Signs of Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
Best Candidates:
Patients with a high likelihood of obstructive sleep apnea who need a quick and straightforward diagnostic test. It is also useful for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment in patients already diagnosed with sleep apnea.
Sleepco: Your Partner in Sleep Health
At Sleepco, we understand the importance of accurate and timely diagnosis of sleep disorders. We have the resources and expertise to conduct Level 2 to Level 4 sleep studies, ensuring that you receive the best possible care in the comfort of your own home. Our partners that are experts in the field will guide you through the process, from initial consultation to diagnosis and treatment planning.
More about Sleep Tests: Advanced Sleep Studies
In addition to the standard polysomnographic sleep studies, there are other tests available for specific conditions and treatment planning.
CPAP Titration Study
A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) titration study is conducted to determine the optimal pressure settings for a CPAP machine, which is used to treat sleep apnea.
What It Includes:
- Standard polysomnographic monitoring
- CPAP machine to deliver varying levels of air pressure
Conditions Treated:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Best Candidates:
Patients diagnosed with sleep apnea who require CPAP therapy. This study ensures that the CPAP machine is set to the correct pressure to keep the airway open during sleep.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
Description:
The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is used to diagnose narcolepsy and other disorders of excessive daytime sleepiness. It measures how quickly a person falls asleep in a quiet environment during the day.
What It Includes:
Series of nap opportunities (usually five) scheduled two hours apart
EEG, EOG, and EMG monitoring during naps
Conditions Diagnosed:
- Narcolepsy
- Idiopathic Hypersomnia
Best Candidates:
Patients who experience excessive daytime sleepiness and have symptoms suggestive of narcolepsy or other hypersomnia disorders.
Conclusion
Polysomnographic sleep studies are invaluable tools in diagnosing and understanding sleep disorders. From the comprehensive Level 1 in-lab studies to the more convenient at-home Level 2, 3, and 4 studies, each type offers unique benefits and diagnostic capabilities. At Sleepco, we are equipped to conduct Level 2 to Level 4 sleep studies, providing you with accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. For those requiring more specialized testing, advanced studies like CPAP Titration and the Multiple Sleep Latency Test are available to ensure comprehensive care.
If you suspect you have a sleep disorder or have been experiencing sleep-related issues, don't hesitate to reach out to Sleepco. Our team of experts are here to help you achieve better sleep and improve your overall health and well-being.