Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects approximately 18 million Americans. However, many people are undiagnosed, so they aren’t getting the treatment they need to achieve quality sleep. To receive a diagnosis, you must undergo a sleep test. This can be completed in the comfort of your own home. Continue reading to learn more about sleep apnea tests and how they work.
What Is an At-Home Sleep Apnea Test?
A home sleep apnea test is a portable breathing monitor that is worn overnight. This is used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea at home. As you are sleeping, the monitor records your breathing and oxygen levels to detect and measure when your breathing ceases, also called “apneas.” Some common metrics that are measured during an at-home sleep apnea test include:
- Respiratory activity
- Heart rate
- Blood oxygen levels
- Nocturnal movement
- Snoring events
How Does the Test Work?
Using an at-home sleep apnea test is just a few simple steps:
- Get a Prescription: To take an at-home sleep apnea test, you need to get a prescription from your doctor, and schedule an appointment with a sleep apnea dentist. During your visit, they will ask about your prescription and explain how the testing kit works.
- Take the Test: According to the instructions, take the test. To ensure a more accurate reading, it’s a good idea to avoid napping, caffeine, alcohol, and late meals on the day of your test.
- Review Your Results: When your test is finished, your sleep apnea dentist will interpret the data and determine if you have sleep apnea. Then, they will work with you to create a treatment plan.
What Are the Benefits of an At-Home Sleep Apnea Test?
There are numerous benefits you can experience by opting for an at-home sleep apnea test instead of one completed in a lab. Here are just some of them:
- Comfortable: You can sleep in the comfort of your own bed instead of in an unfamiliar lab setting.
- Convenient: You don’t have to drive to a sleep clinic to complete the test.
- Affordable: At-home tests are often covered by insurance and end up being more affordable.
- Shorter Wait: Getting an appointment at a sleep clinic can take some time. With an at-home test, you can get your results back faster.
If you think you have sleep apnea, it’s worth it to undergo a sleep test and receive a diagnosis. This way, you can work towards the treatment plan that’s right for you!
About the Author
Dr. Dean Hutto is an experienced sleep apnea dentist who has been working in the dental field for more than three decades. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Dental School in Houston and is a proud member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, Southwestern Society of Oral Medicine, Academy of General Dentistry, and many more professional organizations! For more information on sleep apnea or to schedule an appointment at his office in Baytown visit his website or call (281) 422-8249.