Sleep deeply and wake refreshed, as many of our patients already do after treatment at Liv Hospital!
Sleep
Expertise
Experience advanced diagnostics and tailored care at Liv Hospital Dubai’s Sleep Study unit, specializing in sleep apnea solutions. Our specialists use cutting-edge methods to improve breathing, sleep quality, and overall health effectively and safely. This service reflects not only treatment, but the expertise, dedication, and precision supporting every patient’s journey.
What is a sleep study (polysomnography)?
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An overnight test recording brain waves, breathing, oxygen, heart rhythm, and movements to diagnose a wide range of sleep disorders.
Painless sensors are placed on the scalp, face, chest, and legs. A technologist monitors you in a quiet, private room.
Who should consider testing?
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Loud snoring, witnessed pauses, gasping, morning headaches, or daytime sleepiness suggest sleep-disordered breathing (apnea, hypopnea, UARS).
Testing also evaluates insomnia, restless legs, periodic limb movements, parasomnias, circadian rhythm issues, narcolepsy, and unexplained nocturnal events.
Types of tests: in-lab vs home
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In-lab PSG: Full study with many channels—best for complex, uncertain, or non-apnea disorders; a technologist is present overnight.
HSAT (home test): Fewer signals—screens mainly for obstructive sleep apnea. Your sleep physician selects the most appropriate option.
Daytime tests (MSLT / MWT)
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MSLT: Measures how quickly you fall asleep in scheduled naps to assess pathological sleepiness and REM-onset (narcolepsy, hypersomnia).
MWT: Measures ability to stay awake in a quiet setting—often used for safety/fitness-for-duty evaluations after treatment.
How should I prepare?
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Avoid caffeine and naps the day of the study. Wash hair; skip oils and heavy makeup so sensors adhere well. Bring sleepwear and toiletries.
Take usual medications unless advised otherwise. Tell us about heart, lung, or neurological conditions. Arrive ~60 minutes before your normal bedtime.
What happens overnight?
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You sleep as naturally as possible in a hotel-style room. If you need the bathroom, we disconnect and reconnect the sensors briefly.
If sleep apnea is identified, CPAP titration may be performed the same night or on a second night to find optimal settings.
Is it safe or uncomfortable?
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The study is noninvasive and safe. Mild skin irritation from adhesive or temporary awareness of sensors can occur and fades quickly.
Rooms include call buttons and monitoring for assistance. Emergency protocols and medical staff are available on site overnight.
Understanding results: AHI, RDI, oxygen
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A sleep physician reviews every signal and prepares a detailed report. We explain findings and personalize next steps with you.
Key metrics include AHI/RDI (events per hour) and oxygen levels: normal <5, mild 5–14, moderate 15–29, severe ≥30. Plans consider symptoms, risks, and preferences.
Treatment pathways (beyond apnea)
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For sleep apnea: CPAP/BiPAP, oral appliances, positional therapy, weight optimization, nasal/allergy care; selected patients may consider surgery or nerve stimulation.
For insomnia: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). For circadian issues: light timing, melatonin protocols, schedule anchoring. Care is individualized.
CPAP basics and mask fitting
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CPAP provides gentle airflow to keep the airway open, reducing snoring and preventing events and desaturations across positions and stages.
We trial nasal, pillow, and full-face masks to ensure comfort and seal. Humidifiers, ramp features, and coaching improve early adaptation.
If I struggle with CPAP
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Most issues resolve with mask refitting, humidity, nasal therapy, pressure adjustments, or gradual desensitization sessions and follow-up.
Persistent intolerance? Consider custom oral appliances, positional devices, or surgical options after comprehensive evaluation with our team.
Children and sleep testing
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Pediatric rooms and age-appropriate sensors are available. Common reasons: snoring, witnessed pauses, behavioral concerns, ADHD-like symptoms, parasomnias.
A parent can stay overnight. We prioritize comfort, family education, and individualized plans for growth and development.
Pregnancy and sleep testing
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Pregnancy raises risk of snoring and apnea, especially in the third trimester. Testing is safe and supports maternal and fetal health.
Management emphasizes positional strategies and CPAP when needed. We coordinate closely with obstetrics during and after pregnancy.
Lifestyle steps that help
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Maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol near bedtime, treat nasal congestion, and avoid sedatives unless prescribed. Sleep on your side if positional apnea exists.
Keep a consistent schedule, exercise regularly, and elevate the head of the bed if reflux is present. These complement—not replace—medical therapy.
Shift work & jet lag
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Circadian misalignment causes insomnia or sleepiness at the wrong time. Strategic light exposure and schedule planning realign the body clock.
We provide tailored protocols for travelers and shift workers, including melatonin timing and sleep anchoring, while screening for underlying apnea.
What to bring on study night?
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Photo ID, medication list, comfortable sleepwear, toiletries, and any nighttime medicines or inhalers. Bring your dental device if you use one.
You may bring a favorite pillow or book. Please avoid nail polish or heavy hair products; they can interfere with oxygen probes and sensors.
Privacy and data security
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Video and physiologic signals are stored securely and accessed only by your care team. We comply with strict local and international privacy standards.
Reports are shared via secure systems with your consent. Copies for travel, licensing, or employers are available on request.
When to repeat testing?
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Consider retesting after major weight change, persistent symptoms despite therapy, new cardiovascular issues, or when renewing/adjusting device prescriptions.
Stable patients on effective treatment may only need clinic follow-up and device data downloads rather than another overnight study.
Dr. Fabrizio Facchini
Consultant - PulmonologyWith over 15 years of international experience, this pulmonologist specializes in asthma, allergies, and sleep apnea. He is trained in advanced respiratory diagnostics, allergy testing, and comprehensive sleep studies. As a clinical leader, he has directed tertiary respiratory clinics and developed patient-focused care protocols. Skilled in bronchoscopy and multidisciplinary management, he combines precision medicine with compassionate care to improve breathing and sleep quality.
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