Sleep study; Polysomnogram; Rapid eye movement studies

A normal test result shows usual or normal patterns of brain waves and muscle movements during sleep, without frequent breathing problems.

A sleep study keeps track of:

• How often you stop breathing completely for at least 10 seconds (called apnea)
• How often your breathing is partly blocked for 10 seconds (called hypopnea)

Results are most often reported using the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), which can be used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea.

• 5 - 15 is mild sleep apnea
• 15 - 30 is moderate sleep apnea
• More than 30 is severe sleep apnea

The sleep specialist must also look at other findings from the sleep study and the history and physical exam to make the diagnosis and decide on treatment. A sleep study can also help diagnose narcolepsy.

Images

Sleep studies

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Review Date: 09/15/2010
Reviewed By: Denis Hadjiliadis, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)