MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Polysomnogram

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Polysomnogram

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test How the test will feel	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are Special considerations

Illustrations

Sleep studies

Alternative names Return to top

Sleep studies; Polysomnography; Rapid eye movement studies

Definition Return to top

A polysomnograph is a test of sleep cycles and stages through the use of continuous recordings of brain waves (EEG), electrical activity of muscles, eye movement (electrooculogram), breathing rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen saturation, and heart rhythm and direct observation of the person during sleep.

There are two states of sleep: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. REM sleep is associated with dreaming and paralysis of body muscles (except for the eye and diaphragm muscles). NREM sleep has four stages distinguishable by EEG waves. REM sleep alternates with NREM sleep approximately every 90 minutes. A person with normal sleep usually has four to five cycles of REM and NREM sleep during a night.

How the test is performed Return to top

Polysomnograms are usually conducted in a sleep study center. You will lie on a bed in the test center. The test may be carried out during the night so that normal sleep patterns can be reproduced. Electrodes are placed on the scalp, the outer edge of the eyelids, and to the skin on the chin in preparation for the test.

Characteristic patterns from the electrodes are recorded while you are awake with your eyes closed and during sleep. The time taken to fall asleep is measured as well as the time to enter REM sleep. Sometimes the movements of a person during sleep are recorded by video camera.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

Do not take any sleeping medication and do not drink alcohol or caffeine-containing beverages before the test.

For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel Return to top

Electrodes will be placed on the skin and scalp. Monitors to record heart rate and breathing rate will be attached to the chest. Sometimes other test to determine breathing disorders during sleep are also performed.

Why the test is performed Return to top

The test is performed to evaluate possible sleep disorders, such as insomnia, hypersomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, breathing difficulties during sleep, behavior disturbances during sleep, or other sleep disorders.

Normal Values Return to top

Usual or normal patterns of brain waves and muscle movements during sleep.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Abnormal results may confirm a suspected sleep disorder.

What the risks are Return to top

The risks are negligible as long as the tests and equipment are appropriately supervised.

Special considerations Return to top

Sleep studies may be applied to other disorders.

Update Date: 10/23/2003

Updated by: Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.