Common Testing Methods For Sleeping Disorders

If you have trouble sleeping, you’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide suffer from sleep disorders that make it difficult to get a good night’s rest. Fortunately, several tests can be used to help diagnose these disorders. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common testing methods used to diagnose sleep disorders.

Polysomnography

Polysomnography is a sleep test that records multiple physiological functions during sleep. It’s designed to identify the various stages of sleep. And also features of other recognized sleep disorders such as narcolepsy and restless leg syndrome.

It typically involves overnight admission to a sleep center, where data is recorded via electrodes attached to the scalp, electrocardiogram leads placed on the chest, and sensors on limb extremities. By monitoring these functions, doctors can identify disruptions in standard brain wave patterns that indicate impaired cognitive functioning or another underlying medical condition.

Actigraphy

Actigraphy measures sleep-wake cycles by recording physical activity with an actigraph. This portable device consists of a minor wristwatch-like computer worn continuously for several days. It measures movement to determine rest periods and training throughout the day and night. And that can help diagnose circadian rhythm disorders, including jet lag or delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS).

A sleep apnea dentist can also use actigraphy to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for certain sleep disorders, such as insomnia. These devices may also record sleep efficiency, which can help doctors determine how much time is spent in bed sleeping.

Multiple Sleep Latency Test

The multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) measures the speed of falling asleep by assessing the amount of time. And it takes for you to fall asleep during a series of scheduled naps. It’s typically performed in a sleep lab, where it’s often combined with other tests to evaluate the different stages of your sleep cycle.

MSLT results are scored based on how quickly you fall asleep during each nap. If sleeping medication has been given before the test, this will be noted and factored into the scoring system. A high MSLT score (4 minutes or less) indicates sleepiness. And it is associated with an increased risk of accidents and memory problems.

Ambulatory Monitoring

Ambulatory sleep studies provide a noninvasive alternative to in-lab polysomnography. While the patient is at home, they wear a portable monitor that records data on several physiological functions — including brain activity — via sensors attached to the head and chest.

During this type of study, participants can engage in their usual daily activities. The data collected from the monitor is then used to help diagnose sleep disorders with a high degree of accuracy and objectivity. Also, because this system provides an accurate measure of sleep and wake times, it can assess the effectiveness of various treatments.

EEG (Electroencephalogram)

Electroencephalography (EEG) records the electrical activity of your brain using electrodes placed on the scalp. This test is typically used to diagnose sleep disorders. Such as narcolepsy, periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which disrupt standard brain wave patterns during various stages of sleep.

An EEG is typically performed overnight in a sleep lab but can also be done, outpatient. During this procedure, the patient is monitored by technicians trained to wake them up periodically throughout the night. This allows doctors to see how different stages of sleep are affected when they’re awakened.

Portable Monitors

Sleep apnea monitoring requires an overnight test in a sleep lab. However, some individuals can’t tolerate the many wires and other equipment typically used to conduct polysomnography. For them, there are portable monitors designed to record respiratory activity while they’re sleeping at home. As with actigraphy, this type of study measures physical activity, which allows doctors to determine periods of rest and training throughout the night.

Home Sleep Tests

Home sleep tests are an option for people who can’t tolerate the equipment typically used to perform polysomnography or those who prefer to diagnose their sleep disorder in the comfort of their own home. Using data downloaded from a portable monitor worn during sleep, doctors can accurately assess respiratory abnormalities and pinpoint whether they’re caused by obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, or another condition.

While many testing methods are available for diagnosing sleep disorders, the best choice often depends on an individual’s personal preferences and medical requirements. The most important consideration is choosing a method that provides comprehensive sleep data that allows doctors to diagnose accurately.

Sleep tests can be invaluable in diagnosing and treating various sleep disorders. The test that’s most suitable for you is the one that provides the best quality of sleep data while providing a high level of accuracy.

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Conclusion

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with sleeping disorders, it is important to seek medical help. A variety of tests are available to diagnose and treat sleep problems. Depending on your specific situation, your doctor may recommend a polysomnogram, actigraphy test, or other diagnostic methods for your sleeping disorders. Don’t wait any longer to get the rest you need- start by scheduling an appointment with your physician today. Have you tried any of these methods? Let us know in the comments below at SenseOrient!