What is a typical instruction for patients before a sleep study?

Before undergoing a sleep study, it is important for patients to avoid caffeine and alcohol. Both substances can significantly affect the quality of sleep and interfere with the results of the study. Caffeine, a central nervous system stimulant, can lead to increased alertness and difficulty falling or staying asleep, which would not provide an accurate assessment of the patient’s sleep patterns and issues. Alcohol, while it may initially induce drowsiness, has a disruptive effect on sleep architecture, leading to fragmented sleep patterns and potentially masking underlying sleep disorders.

By avoiding these substances, patients can ensure a more reliable evaluation of their sleep behavior and any associated problems during the sleep study, allowing healthcare professionals to make better-informed decisions regarding diagnosis and treatment.