Sleep Apnea Tests – What You Need to Know
If you’re exhibiting sleep-related symptoms such as excessive snoring, restless nights or daytime sleepiness, it might be time to ask your doctor for help. Next, they will determine if you have a breathing problem by using one of two sleep apnea tests. The most commonly used test is an overnight sleep study called a polysomnogram, or PSG. This is performed at a sleep center or lab, sometimes inside a hospital or other medical center, and sometimes in stand-alone facilities dedicated solely to sleep testing. You will be given a private bedroom, and the equipment is connected to sensors that monitor your breath, heart rate, oxygen level, movement and more.
To diagnose sleep apnea, your healthcare provider will first do a physical exam and take a detailed medical history. They will also ask about your symptoms, lifestyle habits and any medications you’re taking. They may order a few blood tests to rule out certain conditions that can mimic apnea, like low thyroid levels.
The other option is a home sleep apnea test, which your doctor can prescribe for you based on the results of your physical and medical history. These are a newer development, and they can offer many of the same advantages of the traditional polysomnogram without the hassle of spending the night in a strange bed in a lab. Home tests also tend to be less expensive, more convenient and have shorter wait times than a in-lab sleep study.
To get the most accurate data from your at-home sleep apnea test, you will need to stick with it for at least one to three nights. You’ll also need to avoid napping, alcohol and heavy or late meals on the days before testing. The data will be analyzed by your healthcare provider, and they’ll use it to make a diagnosis or suggest treatments.
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep, causing the airway to become narrow or blocked. This can result in a lack of airflow, which leads to fatigue, headaches, low energy and depression. It can also raise your risk of heart attack, stroke and high blood pressure. To treat obstructive sleep apnea, your doctor can prescribe sleep aids, such as a CPAP machine and mask. These devices can help keep your airway open while you sleep, which allows for adequate breathing and improved quality of life.
You can reduce your risk of sleep apnea by losing weight, refraining from drinking alcohol and taking sleeping pills before bedtime, avoiding high-stress activities, and practicing good sleep hygiene. To learn more about getting the best sleep possible, contact your healthcare provider today. They’re always happy to answer your questions and help you find the best solutions to your sleep-related problems.