Not all sleep issues are obvious, but they can have serious consequences. Sleep tests provide a detailed look at what happens while you rest, helping detect sleep apnea and other health risks. With this insight, your doctor can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
When to Consider a Sleep Test
A sleep test is appropriate when someone experiences certain symptoms. These typically include sleep apnea, loud snoring, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, or pauses during breathing while asleep. While some symptoms can create annoyance, others can be a serious health risk. Sleep apnea is when someone intermittently stops breathing while asleep. Our sleep apnea risk quiz is a smart first step to assessing personal risk. It’s also essential to seek a professional evaluation if your quiz results indicate a potential risk.
Types of Sleep Tests
There are two types of sleep tests that professionals use to evaluate patients. A home sleep apnea test (HSAT) is convenient and portable. Patients can feel relaxed and comfortable as they sleep in their normal environment at home. This test measures breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and heart rate. An in-lab sleep study (polysomnography) is conducted in a sleep center. It can monitor brain waves, muscle activity, and breathing more precisely. A medical provider will determine which test is appropriate.
What to Expect During the Sleep Test
When preparing for an at-home sleep test, you should expect to receive equipment and instructions in the mail from your provider. The patient sets up their sensors and device before going to bed. The device is then returned for analysis.
During an in-lab test, patients visit a sleep center. The staff will help you be comfortable as a technician attaches sensors to monitor your sleep. Patients sleep at the center overnight with active professional oversight.
How Results Are Reviewed
Once the test is completed, a board-certified sleep specialist will analyze the results. Those results are discussed with the patient to confirm or rule out sleep apnea. The next step is to determine the best course of treatment, which could include CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy, or lifestyle changes.
Taking the First Step
Your sleep is too important to ignore. Sleep tests give a detailed look at what’s happening while you rest and help uncover conditions like sleep apnea before they lead to serious complications. Taking a simple sleep apnea risk quiz is a smart first step toward better sleep and better health.
Schedule an appointment with Sleep Apnea Solutions Tampa.