Sleep Medicine

Improving Quality of Life for People with Sleep Disorders

Learn About our Treatments for Sleep Disorders
The logo for accredited members of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine

More than 70 million Americans experience chronic sleep problems which can affect concentration, appetite, social interactions and your overall health. South Shore Hospital's Sleep Study Program will help pinpoint the root cause of your sleep issues and devise a plan to improve your sleeping patterns, as well as your overall health and well-being. Our state-of-the-art Sleep Center is accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Our specialists treat a wide range of sleep disorders including loud snoring, insomnia and hypersomnia, circadian rhythm disorders, narcolepsy, and restless legs syndrome. Our assessments range from consultations to sleep studies in our Sleep Center.

Below is a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about our sleep studies. 

You will arrive at South Shore Hospital on the evening of your scheduled sleep study. Enter the hospital through our emergency room entrance and tell the
receptionist that you are participating in a sleep study. The receptionist will call the lab to let them know you are here, and will give you directions to the sleep lab. 

When you arrive at the lab, the study will be explained, and you will complete a short medical questionnaire. You will change into the nightclothes that you’ve brought with you. Our technologist will then place electrodes and sensors on you—a painless procedure that makes it possible to monitor your breathing patterns, sleep stages, and oxygen levels. Once this is completed, you can read or watch TV before sleeping. It is best to fall asleep by 11 p.m. so that we may obtain enough information about your sleeping patterns. 

Although it may take a little longer than it may at home, most people do fall asleep. 

You will be woken up around 5 AM and then you can get dressed and leave. 

The data from your study will first be processed and tabulated or “scored” by a sleep technologist. It will then be interpreted by a physician who specializes in sleep medicine. Your physician will then receive a copy of your report and will discuss the findings and recommended treatment options with you. 

Most insurance companies pay for sleep studies but usually require prior authorization from your physician. Please check with your insurer to verify your coverage. 

  • Avoid napping the day of your study
  • Ask your doctor if you should discontinue any medications prior to your study
  • Bring comfortable clothes to wear and your own pillow if you want it
  • Do not drink alcohol on the day of the study

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