After a full night’s rest, you still feel fatigued throughout the day. Perhaps your partner complains about your consistent snoring, and you wake up with headaches or a sore throat. You could have a serious condition called sleep apnea, which deprives your body of air while you sleep. Properly diagnosing this problem is essential to getting the care you need and getting enough quality sleep.
The diagnostic process involves a sleep study, which is conducted at a special facility where your vital signs and oxygenation are monitored throughout the night. This test shows your doctor vital information to help them know how best to address your sleep issues. But what do you need to do going into the sleep apnea study? Keep reading to find out!
Keep Your Doctor in the Loop
Before the sleep study, your doctor should be aware of any conditions or medications you are taking. In fact, they may ask you to stop taking certain medications, depending on their use, for a few days leading up to the sleep study so that they get the most accurate results possible. If you experience changes in your health between your consultation and the sleep study, you should let your doctor know.
Write Down Your Sleep Patterns
In the days or weeks leading up to your sleep test, try to keep a detailed journal of your sleep. Document how many times you wake up per night, when you wake up, and any other details you think may be useful, such as your symptoms in the morning. You may find that patterns emerge, which can help in your diagnosis and treatment.
Have an Overnight Bag
For your sleep test, you’ll be spending 12 hours at a facility, and you need to come prepared. Bring along your toiletries, comfortable pajamas, and a change of clothes for the next day. If you have a favorite pillow, you may also want to have it with you. Be sure also to pack your insurance cards so that the facility has all the information necessary.
Set Yourself Up for Success
On the day before your sleep test, there are steps you can take to ensure few complications. For example, you should avoid taking a nap, drinking caffeine after 2 pm, and having alcohol so that you can more easily fall asleep at the facility. After all, it’s difficult to track your sleep patterns if you have trouble even getting to sleep!
If you follow these small tips before your sleep study, you’ll be better prepared and able to give a more accurate view into your sleep. This, in turn, can lead to a diagnosis that can put you on the path toward better sleep and better overall health.
About the Practice
Since 1959, Brooks Dental has served patients in the Winthrop area with three generations of dentists in the Brook family. In recent years, Drs. Brooks have added sleep apnea therapy to the list of services they provide, referring patients to a trusted sleep study facility and treating this condition with custom oral appliances. If you think you could have sleep apnea and would like to take a sleep study, you can contact Brooks Dental through their website or by phone at 617-846-1811.