Sleep investigations | Benenden Hospital

We offer overnight sleep studies to diagnose a range of sleep disorders.

What is a sleep study ?

We offer two types of sleep study. A home sleep study (or respiratory polygraphy) is a non-invasive test for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). It can tell whether you stop breathing or snore.

An inpatient full sleep study (polysomnography or PSG) is a more complex test which is used to diagnose sleep disorders such as sleepwalking, nocturnal epilepsy, restless leg syndrome and narcolepsy.

Both tests can be carried out overnight at home.

I have a question about sleep studies

Why would I need a sleep study?

Your clinician might recommend a sleep study to diagnose and assess various sleep disorders, including snoring, sleep apnoea, insomnia, narcolepsy, and restless leg syndrome.

What information is collected during a sleep study?

Home sleep study

Respiratory polygraphy measures your breathing, oxygen levels and heart rate while you’re asleep.

Inpatient full sleep study

Polysomnography measures your brain activity (EEG), limb movement, heart rate and breathing during sleep.

How do I choose between a home sleep study and an inpatient full sleep study?

Your Consultant will recommend which option is best for you. A home sleep study is usually recommended to diagnose obstructive sleep apnoea, whereas an inpatient sleep study can provide diagnosis for a wider range of sleep conditions.

What happens before a sleep study?

Our provider Vivisol will arrange delivery of your home sleep study equipment. Depending on whether you’re taking part in a home sleep study or inpatient full sleep study, this will include a nasal cannula, a chest effort belt, recording monitor, abdominal effort belt and heart rate and oxygen sensor.

They’ll explain how to carry out the sleep study, including sharing some online instructions, and will answer any questions that you have.

What happens during a sleep study?

You'll be asked to relax and go to bed at your usual time, and the recording will take place while you sleep.

What happens after a sleep study?

We’ll arrange with you to return the equipment so that a Physiologist can analyse the data and identify any abnormalities or disruptions in your sleep patterns. They’ll send a diagnostic report to your Consultant who will arrange to discuss the results and next steps with you.