4 of the Most Common Questions Before and During a Sleep Test

It seems common to me that once a speech or a debate ends, they’ll ask if there are any questions. At which point, we are quick to discover there are 2 types of people groups in the crowd.

The first group, who are full of curiosity and courage, who want to understand and get answers to their questions, raise their hand.

I think the second group might be more like me. I want to ask the question, but I think everyone else might think it’s a stupid question. So I look at the floor and don’t ask my question, and therefore I don’t get my answer.

Common questions about sleep studies

In the sleep world, it might work similarly. You might have loads of good questions but feel too insecure about asking. Maybe you aren’t too insecure about asking; rather, you aren’t sure what to ask since you don’t know what to expect.

If you fit either of these categories, please stay tuned. I will ask and answer 4 sleep questions.

1. What should I do before my sleep study?

This is a really important question. What you do before the sleep test can affect how the test will go. Here’s my first suggestion: Avoid any kind of nap. We want you to sleep well when you come in, and a nap could alter sleep efficiency. I understand that most people sign up for a sleep test because they struggle with daytime sleepiness, so I know it’s hard to stay awake and alert. Try planning a reasonably active day.

The second suggestion would be to avoid caffeine. Just like the nap, caffeine can affect sleep efficiency. Once again, plan a reasonably active day to help.

My third suggestion is to pack a bag with your nighttime medications and PJs.

2. What should I bring to the sleep study?

A good place to start is in the final suggestion above: the nighttime meds and pajamas. A few more things to include could be reading glasses, hearing aids, a toothbrush, and a contact case.

Usually, there is downtime. Perhaps you can bring a book or laptop for entertainment purposes. Or if you have work to do, you can always bring that along.

3. Can I use the restroom during the test?

I believe this is the most common question I receive. The answer is always yes. The sleep tech will need to be alerted so they can unplug the necessary equipment so you can go. Although you can use the restroom, try to limit massive amounts of liquid, so you aren’t waking up all night to use the restroom.

4. Should I take my sleeping pill?

Please speak with the sleep center to confirm their opinion. My belief is this: mimic what you do at home. If you usually take it, then go ahead and take it on the night of your sleep study. Please wait until you arrive at the sleep center. If you only take a sleeping pill as needed, then wait to see if you do, in fact, need it.

Please add comments or questions below. I hope this was helpful.