Diagnostic Testing/Neurophysiological/Polysomnography

Polysomnography (full overnight sleep study)

Polysomnography in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Polysomnography in Tunis: a full overnight sleep recording (sleep apnoea, daytime sleepiness, severe insomnia, abnormal movements, narcolepsy).

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What is it?

Polysomnography is the most complete test for studying sleep. During one night, many sensors record at the same time the brain's activity (EEG), eye movements, chin muscle tone, breathing (airflow through the nose and mouth, chest and abdominal movements), blood oxygen level, heart rhythm (ECG), leg movements and body position. This information shows the different stages of sleep (light, deep, REM sleep), detects pauses in breathing and their effect on oxygen, as well as abnormal movements or behaviours during the night. It is requested to look for sleep apnoea, to explain marked daytime sleepiness, or to investigate severe or unusual insomnia, abnormal movements or behaviours during sleep, or narcolepsy. It can also be used to adjust a machine-based treatment for sleep apnoea.

When is it prescribed?

Suspected sleep apnoea

Loud snoring, pauses in breathing noticed by others, waking with a start or feeling tired on waking suggest breathing stops during the night.

Marked daytime sleepiness

Falling asleep easily while driving, at work or while reading should prompt a search for a sleep disorder.

Severe or unusual insomnia

When insomnia resists treatment or seems linked to another disorder, the recording helps understand what is disturbing sleep.

Abnormal movements or behaviours during sleep

Moving legs, restlessness, acting out dreams, sleepwalking: the test records what happens during the night.

Suspected narcolepsy

Irresistible sleep attacks during the day, sometimes with sudden loss of muscle tone, lead to this recording, often completed by other tests the next day depending on the doctor's advice.

Preparation

1Arrive at the time given, in the evening, with your overnight things (loose two-piece pyjamas, toiletries, your usual pillow if you wish)

2Avoid coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks and alcohol from the afternoon onwards, and do not nap that day

3Clean, dry hair, without gel, hairspray or oil; men: shaved or short beard if possible

4Shower before you come; do not apply cream or lotion to your face and body, so that the sensors stick well

5Have your evening meal as usual before coming, unless told otherwise

6Keep taking your usual medicines unless your doctor advises otherwise; tell us about any sleeping pills or sedatives and bring a list of your medicines

7Bring your referral, any relevant reports and, if you were given one, your completed sleep questionnaire

How the exam is performed

You are shown to a quiet room and change into your pyjamas

The sensors are fitted: small electrodes stuck on the scalp, face and chin, belts around the chest and abdomen, a small tube under the nose, a finger clip for oxygen, electrodes on the chest and legs

Fitting is painless and takes a while; a few simple tests check that everything works (closing your eyes, looking left and right, breathing deeply)

You go to bed at your usual time and sleep as naturally as possible; you can get up to go to the toilet by letting the team know

Recording continues all night; you are monitored according to how the unit is organised

In the morning, the sensors are removed and you can go home and resume your activities

Duration

One full night, from the evening until the morning, including fitting and removal of the sensors

Results

The night's recording is long: it is analysed in detail by a doctor, who writes a report. The report is given to you and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and any treatment. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Risks and side effects

Painless, with no X-rays or injection

The sensors and tape may leave slight redness or briefly irritate sensitive skin

People often sleep a little less well than at home with the sensors: this is normal and the doctor takes it into account

If you still feel very sleepy in the morning, avoid driving and arrange for someone to take you home

These risks remain rare. Your physician will explain them in detail before the exam.

Request a quote

Request your quote online or call us on the number below:

Request a Quote +216 36 402 000

At a glance

Duration: One full night, from the evening until the morning, including fitting and removal of the sensors

Preparation: Required

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