What does a typical polysomnographic assessment monitor?

A typical polysomnographic assessment monitors various physiological parameters during sleep, collectively known as sleep architecture and bodily functions. This comprehensive evaluation includes EEG (electroencephalogram) readings to track brain waves, as well as data from other sensors that monitor eye movements (EOG), muscle activity (EMG), oxygen saturation (pulse oximetry), and respiratory patterns. By assessing these multiple variables, a polysomnographic test provides a detailed picture of the different sleep stages, identifying sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and other sleep-related disturbances.

This multidimensional approach allows for a thorough understanding of how sleep quality and bodily functions are interrelated, making it vital for effective diagnosis and treatment recommendations. The emphasis on sleep architecture captures the fluctuation of sleep stages—light sleep, deep sleep, and REM (rapid eye movement) sleep—important for overall health and well-being.