How do I know that my sleep study results will be accurate if I sleep unnaturally at the sleep center?

I am having trouble sleeping and am interested in undergoing a sleep study to find out what is wrong. However, I get really nervous whenever I go to the doctor, and I’m afraid I will sleep unnaturally at the sleep center. How do I know that my sleep study results will be accurate, despite my fears?

Doctors Answers (1)

Gary K. Zammit, Ph.D.
Answered on: 6/10/2014

Even though you may not sleep as you normally do when you are undergoing diagnostic testing at a sleep center, your sleep doctor will be able to extract the information that is needed to assist with your diagnosis and treatment plan. In the rare circumstance that a person does not sleep or sleeps very little, your test may have to be repeated. Most sleep centers will conduct your testing in a comfortable environment with skilled and caring technologists in attendance. Therefore, you may find that your nervousness will be calmed once you arrive at the center and get settled-in.