Tell me about your Sleep Study...

[DisneyGirl4188]

The breathing machine is called a CPAP machine. I bascially forces air into your airways to open them (to stop the snoring and apnea).

Depending on the lab, they may have different adhesives (for those that are allergic). Let the tech know of you allergies and they should try to work with you. The paste is a pain to get out of hair; it helps to let HOT water run over it. Not all labs have showers, so be prepared to walk out of the lab with it in your hair.

If you are having issues with sleep, you really should have a study done. Apnea leads to many problems (heart disease, stroke, etc).

 

[chell]

Thanks everyone.

Yesterday I was finally able to get in touch with someone from my neurologists office and was able to schedule it there. My study is in just two weeks. That is so much better than two months. They will let me take my Benadryl. Yay!

 

[hiwaygal]

Hi chell...I've had two sleep studies done. I also am allergic to most adhesives. I told the tech that and they used the tape that I am not allergic to. I didn't have problems with the goop they put in your hair. The tech left all the adhesive "thingys" (yes, that's a technical term ) attached so I could get them off in the shower, it's easier when they are wet.

My first test was weird. I don't sleep well in strange places, but they really don't need you to sleep long. I took extra pillows so I could prop myself on my side (which is how I normally sleep). It was kinda weird because of all the wires attached. I figure the results kind of assume that you aren't sleeping normally anyway, so they make "adjustments" for that.

The second test was easier 'cause I kinda knew what to expect. The only difference was this time, I was testing out the CPAP machines.

I wasn't offered a sleep aid for the first test, because I think they want to see how you do without it. But, I was offered one with the second test, but I didn't need it.

I started a Sleep Apnea thread on the Coping and Compassion board if anyone wants to share their experiences with CPAP, etc. there.

It's not the worst test one can have...and the results could literally save your life. Good luck and feel free to PM me if you have any questions!

 

[chell]

Thanks Denise!

 

[cassie]

I've had 2 sleep studies done. The second one was with a cpap mask because the first study diagnosed sleep apnea. Both tests I was allowed to sleep on my side, but all the wires made me a bit uncomfortable. I was able to watch tv, but being high on the wall, that was uncomfortable to watch so I just tried to sleep.

As for the glue in the hair. Both times my tech used nail polish remover to help get the glue off. I left wearing a baseball cap at 5:30am and showered when I got home. Really not a bad experience at all.