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Neurology Sleep Studies

Sleep is closely connected to brain and nervous system function. When your sleep is disrupted or unrefreshing, it may be due to a neurologic sleep disorder - a condition affecting how your brain regulates rest, movement or breathing during sleep. 

At Banner Health neurosciences, our neurologists use advanced sleep study testing (polysomnography) to help uncover the root cause of these problems and guide effective treatment. 

What is a neurological sleep study? 

A sleep study - also called polysomnography - is a detailed test that records how your brain and body behave while you sleep. Unlike general sleep testing, neurological sleep studies focus on how brain activity and nervous system signals contribute to your symptoms. 

During the test, sensors monitor: 

  • Brain waves and eye movements 
  • Muscle tone and leg movements 
  • Heart rate, breathing patterns and oxygen levels 
  • Sleep stages (REM and non-REM) and how your brain transitions between them 

This information helps your care team identify neurologic causes of sleep problems such as: 

  • Narcolepsy or other hypersomnia disorders 
  • Central sleep apnea 
  • REM sleep behavior disorder 
  • Periodic limb movement disorder 
  • Insomnia related to neurologic disease 

Understanding your sleep study results 

Once your study is complete, your results are reviewed by neurologists and sleep specialists who analyze how your brain, muscles and respiratory system interact during sleep. Findings may include: 

  • Abnormal brain wave activity or sleep stage transitions 
  • Unusual movements or muscle activity during sleep 
  • Changes in oxygen levels, heart rate or breathing 
  • Signs of disrupted REM cycles or sleep fragmentation 

If a CPAP or other therapy is recommended, your team will guide you through the process and help you adjust to treatment. 

Your neurological sleep care team 

At Banner Health neurosciences, your sleep evaluation and treatment plan are designed by a team of neurologists, sleep specialists and technologists who understand how the brain and nervous system influence sleep. Together, they’ll create a care plan tailored to your needs and coordinate with other Banner specialists as needed. 

Our goal is to help you achieve restorative, healthy sleep that supports your brain function, energy and quality of life. 

Learn more about sleep disorder treatments.