PSG Sleep Study

Also known as: PSG, polysomnography, polysomnogram test.

What is a PSG sleep study?

The PSG sleep study, or polysomnography, is a standard sleep study used to identify sleep disorders. The test measures several variables, including heart rate and breathing, to help determine which sleep disorder might be present.

What happens during the test?

The patient spends the night at a sleep center. Before bed, several sensors are attached to the patient’s body in order to measure the heart rate, blood flow, breathing and other variables. These are then monitored while the patient sleeps through the night in order to help diagnose the possible sleep disorder.

Is any special preparation needed?

Patients can treat a PSG sleep study like a night at a hotel. They are encouraged to bring everything they need to sleep, as well as a change of clothes for the morning. You should avoid things that can disturb sleep such as caffeine and alcohol.

What are the risk factors?

There are no risk factors related to the PSG sleep study.

Reviewed by: Mercedes Bello, MD

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:49 PM