Before you can be treated for sleep apnea, you’ll need to complete a sleep test. This used to mean sleeping at an unfamiliar laboratory, but now you also have the option of having the test done at home where you can enjoy the comforts of your own bed. If you do decide to undergo an at-home sleep apnea test, you’ll want to be completely up to speed on how it works and what you can do to prepare for it.
The Steps of an At-Home Sleep Test
A sleep test needs to be prescribed by a sleep apnea expert or your primary care physician. You’ll be given a monitoring device with a number of sensors attached, including a small probe that’s worn over the fingers and a mask with tubes that will be inserted into your nostrils. A number of other sensors will be attached to specific parts of your chest and abdomen. There are a few different devices that are commonly used, such as the Nonin 3500 Pulsox and the WatchPAT HST.
Once you’re ready to go to sleep and begin the test, you’ll attach the sensors to your body according to the instructions that you’ve received. As you sleep, the device will keep track of your breathing rate and oxygen levels. One night should be enough to gather the necessary data; after that, you’ll return the device so that a sleep expert can determine whether or not you have sleep apnea or a different kind of sleep disorder.
How Can You Prepare for an At Home Sleep Test?
You actually don’t have to make any special preparations for an at-home sleep test; you can just follow your regular routine and set up the device once you’re ready to go to bed. That said, if you’re worried that you might have trouble falling asleep for the test, it might be a good idea to avoid any naps that you might normally take so that you’re as tired as possible in the evening. You can also avoid coffee, alcohol, or other stimulants that can potentially interrupt your normal sleep patterns.
To get the most accurate results from your sleep test, try to sleep in the same position that you would on a regular night. Sleep apnea symptoms tend to be worse in people who sleep on their backs, so it’s worth seeing how the results differ based on your sleeping position.
Once your sleep test is complete, you’ll be that much closer to getting the treatment you need to stop your sleep apnea and breathe easy at night. If you have any questions or concerns about the testing process, let your sleep apnea expert know immediately.
About the Author
Dr. David J. Drummond graduated from the Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago. He has served in the United States Army Dental Corps and received advanced training in many different fields. Eventually, he became a Diplomate in the American Sleep and Breathing Academy, meaning he has completed advanced training in order to help his patients with sleep apnea. If you’re interested in having a sleep test done, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Drummond at Stop Snoring Lawton by visiting his website or by calling (580) 355-0344.