Services Sleep Medicine

Sleep Medicine

Our lab is equipped with the latest technology available for observing patients with sleep disorders.

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Sleep Medicine Overview

Sleep Medicine treats patients 18 years of age and older on an individual basis. Patients need a health care provider’s referral. Accreditation standard requires that a sleep relevant history and physical be obtained and reviewed prior to any laboratory examinations. Ask your primary care provider for more information. The sleep study rooms within the center’s laboratory are designed for the comfort of patients and are similar to hotel rooms in decor. The lab is also equipped with the latest technology available for observing patients with sleep disorders.

Hattiesburg Clinic Sleep Medicine treats common conditions including:

Sleep apnea syndrome
Restless leg syndrome
Periodic leg movements in sleep (PLMS)
Narcolepsy and other disorders of excessive sleepiness
Wake/sleep rhythm disturbances
Sleep movement and sleep behavior disorders
Disorders of initiation and maintenance of sleep

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a sleep study?

Sleep studies may be recommended for patients who experience one or more of the following:

Sleepiness during the day
Dosing off while driving
Interrupted sleep
Snoring loudly, gasping, choking, tossing and turning
Several bathroom trips during the night
Feeling tired or sleepy after waking up
Waking up with a dry/sore throat or a headache
Depression
High blood pressure
Sexual dysfunction

How can a sleep study help me?

A sleep study can be used to diagnose or rule out different sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD), narcolepsy, parasomnia, etc.

What should I bring to my sleep study?

A list of all medications you are currently taking
Medications you’ll need during your study
Comfortable clothes to sleep in (i.e., pajamas, robe, slippers, etc.)
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
Health insurance card
State identification card, such as a driver’s license
Cell phone, iPod, iPhone, iPad, laptops are permitted but use will be limited once the study is in effect
Reading material, card games and puzzle books are permitted but, again, use will be limited

Why do I need a list of my medications, insurance card and an I.D.?

This is required to verify your identity and insurance coverage and the technician needs to know what medications you are using, as many medications affect your quality of sleep.

How long does a sleep study last?

A sleep study typically takes approximately 10 hours. Check in to the lab at 8 p.m. and get settled in your room. Fill out the required paperwork and change into sleeping clothes. The technician will come in to connect the wires, which may take 30 to 45 minutes. The technician will explain the test and answer questions you may have. If you are unable to, or choose not to, drive yourself to the test, you must arrange for transportation from the facility between 5:30-6 a.m. on the morning after the test.

How can I sleep with all these wires?

This is a common concern, however, most people do not have any issues getting to sleep with the wires. The wires are bundled together and pulled out of the way so they do not hinder sleep. When in need of a visit to the bathroom during the night, just call the technician and they will disconnect the cable.

Can I watch TV during the study?

Yes, television is allowed before lights go out at 11 p.m. At that point, lights go out in order to allow you as much time to sleep as possible. The TV may cause disruptions in sleep, which may alter the accuracy of the study.

How is the study conducted?

Before the study begins, a sleep technologist will place sensors on your scalp, face, chest and legs. Keep in mind, hair braids and extensions may interfere with the placement of the electrodes. These will record your brainwaves to determine stages of sleep and other important data regarding your body’s activity during sleep. The sensors are not painful. Rarely, some people with sensitive skin develop minor skin irritation at the electrode sites. The sleep technologist will monitor you from a separate room throughout the night.

What’s the purpose of video recording the study?

We video record sleep studies to ensure we get the most accurate information possible to properly diagnose your condition. The technologist and interpreting sleep specialist are the only ones permitted to view the recording.

What is a nap test?

Your sleep specialist may order a daytime nap test, also called a MSLT (Multiple Sleep Latency Test), if they believe you have narcolepsy, a disorder that causes periods of daytime sleepiness.

How will I get my results?

The physician or sleep specialist who ordered your sleep study will go over the results with you and answer any questions you may have during your follow-up appointment. You can ask for a copy of your results to keep for your personal records.