At Manse Medical, we provide Level 1 In-Lab Sleep Studies to diagnose and assess sleep disorders with the highest level of accuracy. Conducted in a controlled clinical environment, this comprehensive test records a wide range of physiological signals during sleep to help identify conditions such as sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, and other sleep disturbances.
What Is a Level 1 Sleep Study?
A Level 1 sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is an overnight test performed in our sleep laboratory under the supervision of trained sleep technicians. This test monitors various aspects of your sleep in real-time, providing a detailed analysis of sleep quality and identifying potential sleep disorders.
What Does the Test Measure?
During the test, multiple sensors are placed on your body to measure:
- Brain activity (EEG) – to track different sleep stages.
- Eye movements (EOG) – to monitor REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.
- Heart rate and rhythm (ECG) – to assess cardiovascular function.
- Muscle activity (EMG) – to detect limb movements and muscle tone changes.
- Breathing patterns – to identify apneas (pauses in breathing) and other irregularities.
- Oxygen levels (pulse oximetry) – to detect oxygen desaturation during sleep.
- Body position – to assess how posture affects breathing and sleep quality.
Who Needs a Level 1 Sleep Study?
Your doctor may recommend an in-lab sleep study if you experience symptoms such as:
- Loud snoring or choking/gasping during sleep
- Daytime fatigue or excessive sleepiness
- Unexplained high blood pressure
- Difficulty staying asleep or frequent awakenings
- Restless or jerking limbs during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
A Level 1 study is particularly beneficial for individuals with complex sleep disorders that require in-depth monitoring beyond what a home-based test can provide.
What to Expect During the Test
- Arrival & Setup: You will arrive at the sleep clinic in the evening at a scheduled time. A trained sleep technician will apply small sensors to your scalp, face, chest, and legs using medical-grade adhesive.
- Monitoring Throughout the Night: Once the sensors are in place, you will be asked to relax and sleep as naturally as possible while the monitoring equipment records data throughout the night.
- Completion & Departure: In the morning, the sensors will be removed, and you will be free to go home. Our specialists will analyse the data and provide a detailed report to your referring doctor.
How to Prepare for Your Sleep Study
To ensure the most accurate results, please follow these guidelines:
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol on the day of your test, as they can affect sleep quality.
- Wash your hair before the test and avoid using heavy conditioners, oils, or styling products, as they may interfere with sensor placement.
- Bring comfortable sleepwear (e.g., pyjamas or a T-shirt and shorts).
- Take your usual medications unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
- Arrive with clean skin – avoid lotions, creams, or makeup.
- Bring personal items such as a pillow or book if it helps you relax before sleep.
Your Next Steps
If you have been referred for a Level 1 Sleep Study, our team at Manse Medical is here to guide you through the process. If you have any questions or need to schedule your appointment, please contact us today.