Can respiratory illnesses such as a cold or flu impact the results of a polysomnography study?

Respiratory illnesses like the cold or flu can significantly impact polysomnography results because they commonly lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, coughing, and difficulty breathing, which can disrupt normal sleep patterns. When a person is experiencing these symptoms, it can affect the quality and architecture of their sleep, leading to fragmented sleep cycles, increased awakenings, and potential alterations in sleep stages.

In a polysomnography study, accurate assessment of sleep patterns and stages is crucial, and any disruptions caused by respiratory symptoms can lead to misleading results, making it appear as though there are underlying sleep disorders when, in fact, the disruptions are due to the illness. Therefore, it is essential to consider the impact of respiratory illnesses when interpreting polysomnography data to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for sleep-related issues.