What is commonly monitored during a sleep study?

During a sleep study, pulse oximetry is commonly monitored to assess the oxygen saturation in the blood. This measurement is crucial in diagnosing various sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnea. When a person experiences apneas or hypopneas during sleep, their oxygen levels can drop significantly, leading to potential complications if left untreated. Monitoring pulse oximetry allows healthcare providers to understand the severity of these interruptions in breathing and evaluate the patient’s overall respiratory function during sleep.

Additionally, while other parameters such as blood sugar levels, muscle strength, and body temperature can have relevance in different contexts, they are not standard measurements taken specifically during a sleep study. The focus on pulse oximetry reflects the key role of oxygenation in evaluating sleep-related breathing disorders.