Sleep Terminology

Apnea - When you stop breathing for a period of more than 10 seconds

Sleep Obstruction - During sleep, your airway is blocked, usually by fatty tissue in your airway

Polysomnography  - A special (usually) overnight test designed to observe and monitor you during sleep

Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) - A specialized sleep study, usually performed after a standard polysomnography, consisting of several short daytime naps that are closely monitored. This is used to diagnose narcolepsy

Insomnia - The inability to fall or stay asleep. Everyone has problems with this on occasion. Insomnia usually refers to an ongoing problem

Narcolepsy - Excessive daytime drowsiness and the tendency to fall asleep suddenly

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder - When your arms and/or legs move excessively during sleep

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) - A device, worn like a mask, that maintains air pressure in your airway to help eliminate obstruction.