Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disease characterized by repeated episodes of interruption or significant restriction of airflow through the airways. An apnea episode or shallow breathing leads to a decrease in oxygen levels, putting the body at risk of functioning in harmful conditions. Breathing pauses can last from a few to several seconds and may repeat hundreds of times during the night. People with sleep apnea usually sleep very restlessly, tossing and turning in bed, rearranging the duvet and pillow. The patient often wakes up and suddenly inhales air through the mouth. Sleep is not restorative, does not recharge energy, and does not allow for proper rest. Apneas and shallow breathing are accompanied by both daytime and nighttime symptoms.
Daytime symptoms: morning headaches, fatigue regardless of the length of sleep, increased drowsiness during the day, making normal functioning difficult, e.g., falling asleep in a chair while watching TV, falling asleep while driving, dry mouth, cracked lips after waking up, excessive irritability, and nervousness. Nighttime symptoms: loud irregular snoring interrupted by sudden silence, restless interrupted sleep, sudden awakenings from sleep often accompanied by a feeling of breathlessness, rapid breathing, or heartbeat, difficulty falling asleep after waking due to anxiety, excessive sweating at night, frequent need to urinate at night.
What is Sleep Apnea - Polygraphy
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. It can lead to various health issues, such as fatigue, headaches, heart problems, and hypertension. Polygraphy is an examination that allows for the monitoring of vital parameters during sleep, such as heart rate, breathing, and body movements, to assess the presence and severity of sleep apnea.
Who is it for
The polygraphy examination for diagnosing sleep apnea is intended for individuals who experience sleep problems, snoring, feeling tired after waking up, as well as those diagnosed with hypertension or heart issues. It may also be recommended for individuals with obesity, diabetes, or respiratory system disorders.
How to prepare for the examination
No special preparation is required for the examination, but it is advisable to ensure a good night's sleep before the test. The evening before the examination: avoid alcohol, do not consume coffee, and avoid using sleeping pills or sedatives (unless advised otherwise by a doctor). It is recommended that the night before the examination be a short sleep.
How the examination proceeds
The examination is performed without a referral.
The device is applied just before sleep, according to the instructions provided in the treatment room. To ensure reliable results, the test should last a minimum of 4 hours. The device should be returned the next day for reading.
How long it takes to get the result and how to interpret it
The results of the polygraphy examination are usually available within 7 business days.
Additional information
Polygraphy is an effective diagnostic method for detecting sleep apnea. It is a simple, quick, and non-invasive examination that can help in the early diagnosis of sleep problems. Consult with your doctor to find out if polygraphy is right for you.
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