In short
Preparing your visit well helps make the consultation and tests more useful. In general:bring your reports and your medication, write down how you sleep and, if you are going to do a sleep study, follow somesimple guidelinesthe day before (avoid naps, caffeine and alcohol). Here we explain everything to you.
Some notes that make the difference
The better we know your problem, the better we can help you. Before your first consultation, we recommendgather the information that you have: medical reports or previous tests, a list of the medications you take and, very useful, some notes about your sleep (what time you go to bed, how long it takes you to fall asleep, how many times you wake up and how you feel during the day).
If someone sleeps with you, their observation is invaluable: snoring, pauses, movements or nocturnal episodes. Many times the partner provides data that the patient himself does not perceive.
And don't worry about “not knowing how to explain it”: that's what the consultation is for. These notes are only a starting point.
How to prepare for a sleep study
If you are going to get a test, these guidelines help make the record reliable.
Avoid coffee, tea and caffeinated drinks that day.
Do not drink alcohol the evening of the study.
Avoid sleeping during the day to arrive with sleep.
Come with clean hair and without creams or hair gel.
Bring pajamas and whatever you wear to sleep.
Ask us if you should take it or not that night.
What to bring and sign before the test
All tests requested by your doctor will be accompanied by ainformed consentwhich you must read carefully and sign before undergoing the test. In it you will find specific information about each test, its objectives, previous guidelines and approximate duration.
Remember to come to the studio with yourDNI, health insurance card and authorization formof evidence where appropriate. Without duly authorized flyers,tests cannot be carried out.
For each test you will be reportd of the center where it is performed: the consultation inC/ Padre Damián, 44or the Sleep Center atPaseo de la Habana, 200, Bajo E.
How to prepare for the sleep laboratory
Guidelines for the day of the study so that the record is reliable.
Come showered, with clean hair and without hair products (hairspray, hair gel) or body cream. If you have stubble, keep in mind that the chin electrodes are fixed with glue; Maybe you prefer to shave it. Do not go after a hairdresser's hairstyle.
Bring pajamas/nightgown or comfortable clothes to sleep in. It is mandatory to wear sleeping clothes. Also bring your personal toiletry bag.
During the night and morning before the study, do not drink alcohol, coffee, cola or tea, and avoid toxins. Do not smoke from 30 minutes before starting each test until its completion. If you have a lot of caffeine for breakfast, reduce to 1 coffee that day.
For tests that require it, you will be told if you can take a nap that day, your bedtime, and your wake-up time the night before.
Your doctor will inform you about taking your usual medication the day before. If you were not instructed not to, take it normally. If you take hypnotics or anti-anxiety medications before bed, discuss this with the technician the night of the study. If you use CPAP and have agreed to use it, bring your own mask.
If you have a cold or stuffy nose on the day of the test, let the staff know. Books or devices may only be used during rest periods; During the tests, reading, using a mobile phone/tablet or listening to music is not allowed.
How the laboratory test works
during study night
Income
Upon arrival, you will be asked for information regarding your date of birth, height, weight, blood pressure, medication, illnesses or health problems, as well as your sleeping pattern the previous night.
Room
The test takes place in a single room with its own air conditioning. Children may be accompanied by one of their parents or legal representative; The rooms do not have a companion bed.
Sensors
You will have electrodes attached to your skin and scalp with glue. They are removed by washing; If there is any residue, you can apply oil and a fine-toothed comb.
Meals and bath
The center does not provide meals, only breakfast. If you need to go to the bathroom, ask the technicians; You will have a wedge or sanitary bottle. In exceptional cases the technician may stop the test temporarily to help you.
Breaks
Between tests you will remain in your room out of bed. Only during these periods will you be able to use headphones, read or use devices; You will also be able to go to the bathroom, drink and eat if you need to.
From study to diagnosis
After the first consultation, diagnostic tests must be carried out within a periodno longer than two or three daysfrom the date of the consultation to obtain maximum effectiveness. Once we have the results, in the subsequent consultation you will be provided with thediagnosis and treatment proposalspecific to your case.
Treatments vary depending on the disorder diagnosed and can range from strictlynon-pharmacological, as is usually the case in most patients with insomnia, untilpharmacological treatments, the use of devices such asCPAPfor patients with sleep apnoea,light therapy, etc.
After carrying out the tests you can lead a normal life (except for lumbar puncture). In short, tests can be uncomfortable at best, butthey are not painful. If you don't understand any instructions, ask before starting; Try not to get nervous, as performance may suffer.
What to expect on the day of your visit
On the day of your appointment or test, we make it easy for you. Here is how it works:
arrival
We welcome you and resolve any questions
Consultation or test
With a specialist or in the laboratory
No rush
We make sure you are comfortable and reportd
Next steps
You leave knowing what comes next
They explained to me in advance how to prepare for the study and on the day of the test everything was rolled out. It is appreciated that they make it so easy for you.
★★★★★
We solve your doubts
Should I take my usual medication?
Can I eat before the study?
Can I shower?
Can someone accompany me?
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Content reviewed by the medical team of the Sleep Research Institute.