What are the primary physiological parameters measured during polysomnography?

The primary physiological parameters measured during polysomnography include EEG (electroencephalogram), EOG (electrooculogram), EMG (electromyogram), oxygen saturation, and respiratory effort.

EEG measures the brain's electrical activity, which is essential for assessing different sleep stages and diagnosing sleep disorders. EOG monitors eye movements, helping to identify REM sleep phases, which are crucial in evaluating sleep architecture. EMG records muscle activity, particularly in the chin and limbs, providing insights into movements that may occur during sleep and indicating conditions such as restless leg syndrome or REM sleep behavior disorder.

Oxygen saturation is measured to assess respiratory function during sleep, which is vital for identifying conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. Respiratory effort is also monitored, typically through belts placed on the chest and abdomen, to evaluate the effectiveness of breathing during different sleep stages.

Other options do not capture the comprehensive scope of polysomnography. While heart rate and blood pressure can provide information, they are not primary measures in sleep studies. Body temperature and metabolic rate are not standard parameters in polysomnography, and brain waves and skin conductance, while related to sleep studies, do not encompass the range of physiological functions monitored during a sleep study. This makes the