Level 1 Sleep Studies

Level 1 sleep studies are referred to by several different names. If you’ve ever heard of a polysomnogram or a sleep lab test, they’re all referring to a level 1 sleep study. These tests are conducted at laboratory facilities once you’ve received a referral from your doctor. Sleep lab tests allow for more data to be collected than a portable sleep test, including your brain activity, breathing rate, body movements and much more. Level 1 sleep studies are critical in diagnosing common sleep disorders, and the staff at Advanced Respiratory Care Network is ready to answer all your questions related to level 1 sleep studies. Please have your family physician send referral form to any of our 3 sites for this testing.

 REFERRAL FORM: SOUTHERN ALBERTA  REFERRAL FORM:  NORTHERN ALBERTA

How Level 1 Sleep Studies Work

We require a referral from your doctor to request a level 1 sleep study at one of our sleep lab locations. We understand you may not know everything that’s included in a level one sleep study. Our experienced team will educate and discuss how the Level 1 Sleep studies work and answer any additional questions you may have.

Preparing for a Level 1 Sleep Study

Please arrive at the sleep center in the evening, and to avoid consuming caffeine, alcohol, and large meals prior to the test. We will instruct you to bring comfortable sleepwear, toiletries, and any medications you need for the night.

How a Level 1 Sleep Study is Set Up

Sleep lab tests are done in a private room with a comfortable bed. To collect data, you will be fitted with a series of electrodes and sensors that will be placed on your head, face, chest and legs. These sensors measure:

• Brain activity
• Eye movements
• Muscle activity
• Heart rate
• Oxygen levels

Sleeping During a Level 1 Sleep Study

Once the sensors are in place, you will be free to sleep. The staff will continuously monitor your sleep patterns and physiological responses throughout the night. If necessary, adjustments to the sensors can be made by our staff during the night to ensure data is collected effectively.

Getting Level 1 Sleep Study Results

In the morning, all the sensors will be removed, and you are free to go home. The data that was collected during your night of sleep will then be reviewed by a sleep specialist. Based on those results, there will be enough information to diagnose any sleep disorders and determine the right treatment plan if needed.

What Level 1 Sleep Studies Can Diagnose

A sleep lab test can be a very useful diagnostic tool in identifying a wide range of sleep disorders, including:

• Sleep apnea or another related disorder
• Narcolepsy
• REM sleep behavioral disorder
• Restless leg syndrome
• Unusual sleep behaviors
• Periodic limb movement disorder
• Unexplained chronic insomnia

Your polysomnogram will provide your physician with valuable data to assist in diagnosing any issues you’re having with the quality of your sleep, which will also assist in prescribing a treatment program to improve your sleep. Please contact Advanced Respiratory Care Network to learn more.