Sleep well, live well
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR HOME SLEEP APNEA TEST
- Imtiaz Ahmad MD, MPH, FCCP
- Updated on: January 23, 2024
- Sleep & Health, Sleep Apnea, Sleep Diagnostics, Sleep Tools
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Table of Contents
A home sleep apnea test is one way to detect obstructive sleep apnea. The test monitors your airflow, oxygen and breathing effort while you sleep at home. Your doctor will perform a complete assessment of your sleep complaints. If you have a high risk of sleep apnea, then your doctor may order a home sleep apnea test for you.
TEST PROCESS
You will receive instructions on how to set up and use the home sleep apnea testing device. There are a variety of different devices, but all of them should monitor at least three signals to detect sleep apnea:
Airflow
For example, you may wear a sensor under your nose to monitor your breathing.
Breathing effort
One or more soft belts typically are placed around your chest to measure your breathing effort.
Oxygen
You will wear a sensor on your finger to monitor the oxygen levels in your blood. This sensor also may be used to estimate your heart rate. Other sensors monitor your body position and snoring.
Am I at Risk ?
Follow the instructions to remove the sensors after you wake up. Then you will return the testing device. Your data will be downloaded from the device. A sleep doctor will interpret the data and make a diagnosis. If the results are unclear, the doctor may recommend that you spend a night in a sleep center for a sleep study. If the test shows that you have sleep apnea, then your doctor will discuss treatment options with you and develop a treatment plan.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the test painful?
No, a home sleep apnea test is not painful. You should be able to sleep fine in your own bed.
Can I sleep in a recliner?
Generally, it is required for you to try to sleep in a bed. Sleeping in an elevated position in a recliner may affect the results of the test.
Is the test the right option for everyone?
Your doctor will determine if a home sleep apnea test is right for you. The test is a good option for many adults who have a high risk of sleep apnea. However, a home sleep apnea test is unable to detect other sleep disorders. The accuracy of the test also can be affected by other medical conditions. Your doctor may decide that a better option for you is to spend the night in a sleep center for a sleep study.
Can I have the television on?
You should turn off the TV prior to bedtime. Otherwise, it might interfere with the sleep recordings and interrupt the home sleep apnea test. You also should turn off your cell phone and any other electronic devices to minimize the chance of sleep disruptions.
Can I get out of bed to go to the bathroom during the test?
Yes, you can get out of bed during the test. Keep all of the sensors connected while you are out of bed.
Do I need to start and stop the recording?
Follow the instructions that come with your device. You may need to start the recording when you go to bed and stop it when you wake up.
Should I take my nighttime medications?
You should follow your doctor’s instructions. Typically, you should take any medications that you normally use at bedtime.
How will I know the results of the home sleep apnea test?
You will schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss the results of the home sleep apnea test.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: CONTENT DEVELOPED BY THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF SLEEP MEDICINE
QUESTIONS ABOUT A SLEEP ISSUE? LET’S TALK.
Imtiaz Ahmad, MD, MPH, FCCP
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad is a highly qualified physician, Board Certified in Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine. He has been actively serving the community of Lee County, Florida since 2004, with a strong focus on a proactive healthcare approach. Dr. Ahmad has received advanced training from some of the most prestigious institutions, including Harvard University, Cornell University, State University of New York at Brooklyn, and the University of Mississippi. SOMNAS is a medical facility that is committed to improving and maintaining the health of patients with sleep disorders. The expert team at SOMNAS is known for their compassionate and high-quality care. They offer unparalleled treatment and care to patients on the Gulf Coast of Florida, ensuring a better and healthier life for them.
Job Title: Board Certified in Pulmonary Medicine
