Sometimes medical lingo can be rather intimidating. Below are descriptions of common diagnosis and treatment methods for sleep disorders to help you understand what to expect, what’s being tested, and how you may be helped.
PSG OR Polysomnogram
For an accurate diagnosis of Sleep Apnea, a sleep disorder with serious health risks, your Physician may recommend a PSG or Polysomnogram.
Polysomnography is a process or technique of recording a number of physiological variables, such as breathing, heart rate, muscle activity, etc. A PSG is done while you are sleeping. Preparation for a polysomnogram includes applying sensors to specific places on your head, eyelids, chin, chest, and legs. You will also have small devices, called nasal cannulas, placed in the lower part of your nostrils. These sensors are attached to wires that feed into a central point then into a computer that records the data. Don’t worry; these sensors are applied with a gel adhesive that comes off easily the next morning. We also don’t want you to worry about sleeping with the sensors and wires, your comfort and sleep will not be impacted.
The gold standard for PSG testing is an in-lab, supervised test. We have taken great care to make the sleeping bedrooms in our facilities as comfortable as possible. The beds have excellent mattresses and the rooms are equipped with cable television for your comfort.
A Registered Polysomnographic Technologist will be assigned to you for your Polysomnogram and will apply the sensors and insure your comfort. All our PSG Techs are professionals that have received specialized education and training and can answer most questions you may have along the way.
The PSG is an important diagnostic tool. The equipment records data throughout the night while you are sleeping and the data it records tells your Sleep Physician a comprehensive story about your sleep. You are continuously monitored throughout the night by your PSG Tech.
When you awake in the morning, your PSG Tech will remove the sensors and wires and you will be on your way, usually within a half hour or so.
In some cases, portable PSG testing can be used. Portable testing involves meeting with a PSG Tech, at one of our offices, the evening of the scheduled test to apply the sensors, just like the in-lab testing. After the necessary preparation, a portable PSG monitor is taken home and activated when you go to sleep according to the directions provided by your PSG Tech. These portable PSG monitors can also be used while sleeping in the sleeping berth of your truck cab. The following morning, you need to return to our office for sensor removal and equipment return.
The results of your PSG will be read, evaluated and ready for discussion at your next appointment, usually within two weeks.
Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) Machines
If you are diagnosed with Sleep Apnea you will be advised to use a PAP machine while you’re sleeping. PAP is short for positive airway pressure. Your PAP machine will be set for the appropriate amount of pressure to keep your airway open so you can breathe easier while you sleep. In addition to breathing easier, your snoring will be eliminated or significantly reduced while using your PAP. As you adjust to sleeping with PAP, you will be fully supported by our staff during your transition to night after night of peaceful, healthy restorative sleep. That’s our commitment to you.
PAP machines have improved significantly. Today’s machines are small and quiet and can be easily taken along with you for use in your cab sleeping quarters, on vacation or anywhere your travels take you. Your machine is also just the right size for sitting on your bedside table at home. If you share your bed with a spouse or life partner, they will easily adjust to the quiet hum of your PAP machine.
The mask for your PAP is important for your comfort as well as for the delivery of the pressurized air that keeps your airway open. We will work with you to be sure the mask that is best for supporting your airway pressure also provides you with a comfortable fit for sleeping. The proper fit helps to insure your successful PAP use, which in turn results in the many benefits of great sleep.
The Key: Compliance
There is only one way to measure successful treatment of Sleep Apnea and that is by complying with your PAP protocol! That means you use your PAP machine every night and all night long. Compliance means that you are achieving the quality sleep that allows you to fully participate in life! No more daytime sleepiness; no more sudden awakenings while gasping for air as you sleep; no need for napping while friends and family are having fun; no more morning headaches from poor quality sleep; no more loud snoring; no dry throat when you wake up; no complaints from your partner; no more going through life in a sleepy fog!
With PAP compliance you get recuperative sleep that leaves you refreshed and ready for the day ahead. Your body gets the rest it needs. You can significantly reduce or eliminate the health risks that develop with untreated Sleep Apnea. You become more active.
CMV drivers need to report their PAP compliance in order to maintain a medical fitness certification.
Compliance is the target and The Comprehensive Sleep Wellness is your partner in achieving compliance!