What is the primary purpose of recording EEGs during polysomnography (PSG)?

The primary purpose of recording EEGs during polysomnography (PSG) is to detect brain waves from specific areas of the cortex. The electroencephalogram (EEG) captures the electrical activity of the brain, providing crucial information about different sleep stages, including REM and non-REM sleep. By analyzing brain wave patterns, healthcare providers can identify various sleep disorders, assess the sleep cycle, and understand the overall quality of sleep.

While monitoring heart activity, eye movements, and muscle tone are important components of sleep studies, they serve different purposes. The EEG specifically focuses on brain activity, making it essential for diagnosing and evaluating conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, and other sleep-related disorders. This distinction highlights the unique role of EEG in understanding the complexities of sleep.