Sleep studies

A sleep study is a test that watches your body while you sleep. It shows what happens to your breathing, oxygen, heart and brain at night. Doctors use it to find sleep apnea and other sleep problems. At Universal Sleep Solutions in Leander, Texas, we do sleep studies in our own sleep lab and at home. Dr. Minal Patel, a board-certified sleep doctor, reads every study.

Which sleep study is right for you?

Your sleep doctor picks the test that fits your symptoms and health. Here are the tests we offer:

• In-lab sleep study (polysomnography, or PSG) — You sleep one night in our sleep lab. Sensors track your brain waves, breathing, oxygen, heart and leg movements. This is the most complete test.
• Home sleep apnea test (HSAT) — You wear a small device in your own bed. It checks your breathing and oxygen. It works best for adults who are likely to have sleep apnea and have no other major health problems.
• Split-night study — One night in the lab that finds sleep apnea and then starts CPAP to find the right air pressure.
• CPAP titration study — A night in the lab to find the best air pressure for your CPAP machine.
• MSLT and MWT — Daytime nap tests. They check for narcolepsy and other causes of strong sleepiness during the day.

Not sure which test you need? Read in-lab vs. home sleep study.

What happens during an in-lab sleep study?

1. Check in — You come to the sleep lab in the evening. Bring what you need for bedtime.
2. Sensors — A sleep technologist puts small sensors on your skin and a belt around your chest. They do not hurt.
3. Sleep — You sleep in a bedroom at the lab. The technologist watches the readings all night.
4. Go home — In the morning, the sensors come off and you can leave.

Read how to prepare for your sleep study.

How does our home sleep test work?

1. Deposit — We ask for a deposit for the device. Our office will tell you the amount.
2. Pickup or mail — Pick up the device at our clinic in Leander. We can also mail it to you for an extra fee.
3. Up to 3 nights — You can wear the device for up to 3 nights in a row.
4. Return date — We give you a date to bring or send the device back.
5. Device care — Extra charges apply if the device is lost, damaged or not returned.

What happens after your sleep study?

A sleep technologist scores the study. Dr. Patel then reviews it. You go over your results with her at a follow-up visit. Ask our office when to expect them. If you have sleep apnea, she will talk with you about treatment choices, such as CPAP.

How do you get started?

• Pre-register online — Fill out the secure form on our patient portal. We will contact you to set up your visit.
• Ask your doctor — Your doctor can fax a referral to (877) 569-2885.
• Call us — Have questions first? Call (512) 931-1575, Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.