Need Better Rest? Get a Sleep Study

Sleeping disorders affect 50 to 70 million adults in the US, with the most common being insomnia (difficulty falling and staying asleep). Around 25 million have obstructive sleep apnea (blocked airflow), according to the American Sleep Association.

If you have trouble sleeping or feel abnormally tired during the day, you may benefit from a sleep study in the Bay Area.

To request an appointment with a Dignity Health sleep specialist, Find a Doctor at a location near you.

Reasons for a Sleep Study

In addition to daytime sleepiness, sleep disorders can increase your risk of heart disease and other serious health conditions.

Your doctor may recommend a sleep study test if you have:

  • Chronic snoring or interrupted breathing during sleep
  • Crawling or tingling feelings in your legs, specifically when you’re dozing off or just relaxing
  • Jerking leg or arm movements as you sleep
  • Ongoing daytime sleepiness
  • Trouble falling asleep
  • Waking up during the night for prolonged periods or waking up earlier than desired

What to Expect at a Dignity Health Sleep Center

You’ll need to avoid alcohol and caffeine during the afternoon and evening before your sleep study. You’ll likely spend a full day or night at a sleep center so your sleep patterns can be monitored. A nurse or technician will place sticky electrodes on your body to track your breathing, body movements, blood oxygen levels, and other stats.

Types of sleep studies include:

  • Maintenance of wakefulness test (MWT) — you sit in a chair looking ahead for 40 minutes without falling asleep
  • Multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) — a daytime study where you try to fall asleep in a dark room
  • Polysomnogram (PSG) — you wear monitoring equipment and try to fall asleep just as if you were at home
  • Portable home sleep monitor — an at home sleep study with monitoring equipment

A Dignity Health sleep specialist will review your results and share them with you, typically within a week or two. Together, you can create a treatment plan that fits your needs and preferences.

For the expertise of a sleep specialist in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Redwood City, visit a Dignity Health Bay Area sleep center near you.