Getting A Sleep Study

Ask the Sleep Expert

Dr. Rafael Pelayo, MD
Stanford Sleep Disorders Clinic, Stanford, CA

Why might a healthcare provider recommend a sleep study?

Sleep problems tend to perpetuate themselves over time. The child who is having night terrors, or extreme nightmares, might later be the child who is sleepwalking. Sleep problems will not magically disappear, so it is important to identify them early. Parents’ understanding of their kids sleep is typically influenced by their own family and cultural experiences, so what is a problem for one family, might not be for another.

There are two general types of sleep problems, behavioral and physiological. In practice, a combination of both physical and behavioral problems often exist together. For example a physical sleep disorder can lead to additional behavioral problems. If it is a behavioral problem, it will typically improve if the child gets his or her way for a few nights. If not, it may be something physically wrong, and that’s when a sleep study may be assigned.

How can families prepare for the study?

I recommend that kids and parents make it a fun night, since typically the parent will be sleeping in the room with the child. They can wear matching pajamas, order take out food, and stay up as late as they like. This helps take the pressure off the child falling asleep since the sleep study is to find out what happens during sleep. The children typically sleep better than the parents do.

I also tell children the same rules apply in the sleep clinic as in their home; if they’re able to jump on the bed at home they can do it here. I encourage them to bring anything from home— except their pets—to make them feel comfortable, such as pillows, blankets, and sheets. We also make sure the clinic is very child-appropriate with video games, magazines, and telephones for the child to call home if they want to. The wires that we attach to the child’s head are gold, so I tell children we’re going to decorate your hair with gold. Each child also receives a photo of himself or herself with wires on so that they can show their friends and family.

What advice about children’s sleep can you offer for parents and kids?

Something so natural as sleep should not be a chore. It’s important for parents not to get upset when they think their child is having problems, as this can perpetuate the situation. They should take a deep breath, be patient and think how lucky they are to have that child.

Parents should also know there are many resources to help them. There are several quality books as well as their pediatricians and people who are certified in both sleep medicine and pediatrics.