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1. What is a Polysomnography (Sleep Study)?
Polysomnography (PSG) is a comprehensive sleep test that measures various physiological signals during sleep, such as brain waves, muscle activity, breathing patterns, and oxygen saturation.
This test is essential for diagnosing sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome (RLS), and more.
2. Who Needs a Polysomnography?
You may need a sleep study if you have the following symptoms:
- Severe Snoring and Sleep Apnea
If you snore loudly or feel like you're choking or stopping breathing during sleep, you may have sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which causes repeated breathing interruptions during sleep, increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes—so early diagnosis is important. - Chronic Fatigue and Daytime Sleepiness
If you feel excessively sleepy during the day despite getting enough sleep at night, you may have narcolepsy or another sleep disorder.
This can lead to problems with concentration and reduced work or academic performance. - Insomnia
If you have trouble falling asleep, wake up frequently, or wake up too early and can’t fall back asleep, a sleep study can help identify the cause.
Insomnia may be linked to stress, anxiety disorders, or depression. - Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
If you feel an irresistible urge to move your legs before falling asleep or your legs move involuntarily during sleep, RLS or Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) may be the cause. - Abnormal Sleep Behavior
Conditions like sleepwalking, night terrors, or REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) involve unusual behaviors during sleep and can be accurately diagnosed with a sleep study.
3. How is the Test Done?
A polysomnography is usually conducted overnight in a hospital or sleep clinic and follows these steps:
- Pre-Test Consultation
A consultation is done to discuss your sleep habits and symptoms.
Medical history and current medications are also reviewed. - Sensor Attachment
Electrodes and sensors are placed to monitor brain activity (EEG), muscle movement (EMG), heart rhythm (ECG), breathing, and oxygen levels.
You will sleep with the equipment attached. - Sleep Monitoring
Brain waves, breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels are continuously monitored during sleep.
Snoring, apnea episodes, and movements are recorded. - Result Analysis and Diagnosis
The recorded data is analyzed to determine the presence and type of sleep disorder.
Based on the results, treatment options will be discussed, and additional tests may be recommended.
4. Why is Polysomnography Important?
Sleep disorders are not just about feeling tired. They are often linked to serious health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and dementia.
Sleep apnea, in particular, can negatively affect heart health if untreated and increase the risk of car accidents due to daytime sleepiness.
5. Cost and Health Insurance Coverage
The cost of a sleep study varies by hospital but generally ranges from 500,000 to 1,000,000 KRW (approximately $375 to $750 USD).
However, if sleep apnea is suspected, health insurance may cover the test, reducing the financial burden.
It’s recommended to check with your hospital in advance about insurance coverage.
6. Treatment After the Sleep Study
Treatment depends on the diagnosis:
- Mild Sleep Apnea: Weight loss, lifestyle changes (e.g., sleep position adjustment, quitting smoking/alcohol)
- Moderate to Severe Sleep Apnea: CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), oral appliances (mouthpieces), or surgical options (such as tonsil removal)
- Insomnia: Sleep hygiene improvement, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication if needed
- Restless Legs Syndrome: Iron supplements, dopamine-regulating medications
Polysomnography is an essential test for diagnosing a wide range of sleep disorders—from simple insomnia to severe sleep apnea.
If you experience persistent snoring, chronic fatigue, or insomnia, it’s important to consult with a specialized medical center.