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Permalink Reply by Mark Douglas on July 18, 2010 at 7:31pm

I don't think its too late to make them re-test, at no charge. It's worth a try.

It's really unforgivable, because the cold impacted your test, so the testing waas not suitable because of their conditions.

They were professionals charging a very hefty price, and their faulty conditions caused this. You want the test.

Don't just complain to a receptionist. Find out who has authority in that business to order another test. Set up a meeting with that person, face to face. Dont let them run away on the phone, don't let them put buffers up and have you talk to a receptionist or leave a message. Someone has that authority, and can get that done with a phone call. Thats the person you make an appointment with. Be clear, be nice, but be specific and ask for a specific remedy. You want that test redone in the right way.

By the way, I read where once you put someone on the spot like this -- usually there is silence. Don't speak first at that point, don't let them off the hook. The fact they go into silence mode then means they probably realize you are right, and are trying to figure a way to give you what you want without losing face.

If you speak first, you may well give them an out. Just wait, even if it's uncomfortable.

Anyway, you don't have anything to lose by being a squeeky wheel.

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Permalink Reply by RL on July 20, 2010 at 12:58am

My first PSG sleep study was a split study. They were not able to get a successful titration for me in the time they had left that first night, so I had to go back for the second study to do the titration. I think it could be good if people could get it all in one night, and get their CPAP quicker as needed. My difficulty with titration was related to the central apnea events. I just wish someone could have explained the process to me before the first study. I like to know what to expect and can relax better when I know the whats and whys. The techs are not allowed to tell you about the results, but that doesn't mean they don't know. The fact that they mentioned you may come back suggests to me that they were able to gather data for a clear diagnosis, just not enough time to get you well titrated. Just make sure to follow up with your doctor as soon as they have the report so you can get your second appointment asap if it is needed. Do talk to your doctor about a sleep pill to help with the second study if you have any concern about it. You would need to get the Rx before you go for the study, and take it with you. Check with the sleep center before your second study regarding the temperature issue to assure how it can be handled and be prepared to take what you need with you - warm pajamas, extra blanket etc. Ask them to put you in a room away from the restroom when you make the appointment too.

I felt like I had a difficult night on that first night too, but it was not from insomnia, nervousness, or being cold for me, just difficulty dealing with the mask and air pressure. On the second PSG, they had me use a nasal pillow mask instead of the larger type that covers the whole nose with suction. I did much better with the nasal pillow mask and got a successful starting titration. I was less tired and dysfunctional after the second study, where as, I felt awful and got a migraine after the first one. Just know that you are on your way to getting help with what is affecting you and in time, you will be able to get what you need to feel better. Don't let the bumps along the road discourage you - you are on the road to getting help. Your experience will help you deal with what ever comes next in a way that will be better for you.

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