• Brain activity (EEG) to monitor different sleep stages.
• Eye movements (EOG) to track REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.
• Muscle activity (EMG) to identify movement or muscle relaxation during sleep.
• Heart rate and rhythm (ECG).
• Breathing patterns to detect apnea, hypopnea, or other respiratory irregularities.
• Oxygen levels in the blood to evaluate oxygen saturation.
• Body position and limb movements to detect restless behaviors.

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Episodes of breathing interruptions during sleep.
• Central Sleep Apnea: Breathing irregularities due to brain signal issues.
• Insomnia: Difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Involuntary leg movements disrupting sleep.
• Narcolepsy: Sudden and uncontrollable sleep episodes.
• Parasomnias: Abnormal behaviors during sleep, like sleepwalking or night terrors.

Polysomnography is typically performed overnight at a sleep center or hospital, though home-based testing options are available for specific conditions. During the test:

• Small sensors are placed on the scalp, face, chest, and legs.
• Breathing and oxygen levels are monitored using a nasal cannula and a pulse oximeter.
• A sleep technician supervises the study to ensure accurate data collection.

The collected data is analyzed by a specialist to diagnose sleep disorders and recommend appropriate treatments. Based on the results, interventions may include lifestyle changes, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, medication, or other tailored solutions.

Polysomnography plays a vital role in improving sleep quality and overall well-being by helping diagnose and manage sleep disorders effectively. If you're experiencing persistent sleep issues, consult a specialist to explore whether a sleep study could benefit you.