Colin Snow
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects over 20 million Americans and is caused by a repeated collapse of the upper airway during sleep, resulting in poor sleep quality and low oxygen levels. A sleep apnea test, also known as a polysomnogram (PSG), can be performed at a sleep disorder centre or at home. The test involves recording multiple body systems, including the brain, heart, and respiratory system, to determine if an individual has sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. At-home sleep apnea tests are a cost-effective and simplified alternative to overnight sleep studies, providing an easy way to evaluate breathing parameters and identify breathing difficulties.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Test Type | Polysomnography (PSG), Electroencephalogram (EEG), Electromyogram (EMG), Electro-oculogram (EOG), Electrocardiogram (EKG), At-Home Sleep Test |
| Test Location | Sleep Disorder Center, Sleep Lab, At Home |
| Test Duration | One night |
| Test Preparation | Avoid caffeine and alcohol, no naps, follow provider's guidelines on bathing and grooming |
| Test Equipment | Sensors, electrodes, belts, oximeter probe, nasal airflow sensor, snore microphone |
| Test Parameters | Brain waves, muscle movement, eye movement, heart rate and rhythm, breathing, oxygen levels, snoring |
| Test Analysis | Qualified sleep specialist, physician, or pulmonologist |
What You'll Learn
At-home sleep tests
At-home sleep apnea tests are a convenient, cost-effective, and comfortable alternative to traditional in-lab sleep studies. They are best suited for people who are suspected of having moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and do not have other medical conditions or sleep disorders.
Getting the Test
First, talk to your doctor about your symptoms. Your doctor will ask you questions about your personal health history and family history. They may also conduct a physical exam to determine your sleep apnea risk. If your doctor finds that you are at risk for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, they can prescribe an at-home sleep apnea test. You can then either pick up the test from a sleep center or have it delivered to your home.
Taking the Test
When you are ready to take the test, follow the instructions for your specific device to place the sensors on your body correctly. The sensors may include a small probe over your finger to measure oxygen levels, a mask with tubes inserted into your nostrils, and other sensors placed on your abdomen and chest to measure their rise and fall as you breathe. Turn on the device and try to sleep as you normally would. Most tests require one full night of sleep, including at least four hours of uninterrupted monitoring.
Reviewing the Results
After you wake up, turn off the device and remove the sensors. Return the device if required. A sleep technologist will then review your results and send them to your physician. If your results indicate sleep apnea, your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment course. If the results are inconclusive or you have additional symptoms, your doctor may recommend an in-lab sleep study for further evaluation.
Pros of At-Home Sleep Apnea Tests
At-home sleep apnea tests offer increased convenience, flexibility, and affordability compared to in-lab tests. They are more accessible, especially for those who live far from sleep centers or have scheduling constraints. They also provide the comfort of sleeping in your own bed and are generally covered by insurance. Additionally, at-home tests often have shorter wait times, allowing for quicker treatment.
Cons of At-Home Sleep Apnea Tests
The main disadvantage of at-home sleep apnea tests is that they may be less accurate and comprehensive than monitored lab tests. They do not measure brain waves, so they cannot truly track sleep or arousals. As a result, they may underestimate the impact of breathing events on sleep and cannot be used to diagnose other sleep disorders. There is also a risk of technological malfunctions, such as sensors falling off during sleep, which can affect the accuracy of the results.
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Sleep study (Polysomnography)
A sleep study, also known as a polysomnogram (PSG), is a diagnostic test that involves recording multiple systems in your body while you sleep. The test is not painful and usually takes just one night to complete. It is a common test that can help diagnose many sleep-related conditions.
The key body systems monitored during a sleep study include the brain, heart, and breathing. Sensors are attached to the body to track the activity of these systems, giving healthcare providers a comprehensive view of the quality of your sleep. Sensors are attached to the head, face, chest, abdomen, and finger. The sensors are typically adhesive, but some may need to be taped on. The sensors can detect electrical activity in the brain, eye and muscle movement, heart rate and rhythm, and air movement through the nose and mouth. A pulse oximeter is also used to read your pulse and the level of oxygen in your blood.
Sleep studies are usually performed during your normal sleeping hours, but can be scheduled during the day for people who work night shifts. The test is performed in a sleep lab, where you will be assigned a private bedroom. Sleep studies can also be performed at home, which is a cheaper and more comfortable option. However, at-home sleep studies do not involve all the sensors used in a lab sleep study and are usually only recommended when sleep apnea is strongly suspected.
To prepare for a sleep study, you should avoid caffeine and alcohol for at least eight hours before the test. You should also avoid napping, and try to stick to your usual routine. You will need to pack an overnight bag, including comfortable pyjamas, and any personal items you may need.
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Sensors and monitoring methods
Sleep apnea tests, or polysomnograms, are multiple-component tests that electronically send and record specific physical activities while you sleep. The sensors track the activity of multiple body systems, including the heart, brain, and respiratory system, giving healthcare providers a comprehensive view of the quality of your sleep.
The sensors used in a sleep apnea test include:
- Electroencephalography (EEG) sensors, which are coated in a sticky, electrically conductive gel that helps them stick to your head while they detect and record the electrical activity of your brain, known as brain waves.
- Electrocardiography (EKG or ECG) sensors, which are worn on the chest to pick up the electrical activity of your heart.
- Electromyogram (EMG) sensors, which attach to the skin, usually on the face and a leg, to track muscle movement.
- Electro-oculography (EOG) sensors, which are placed on the skin around the eyes to detect eye activity.
- Breathing sensors, which include sensors that detect air movement through the mouth and nose.
- Respiratory inductive plethysmography (RIP) belt, which is a device that detects the expansion of the torso, especially around the chest and belly, when breathing.
- Pulse oximeter, a small adhesive sensor that sticks to the tip of the index finger to read the pulse and the level of oxygen in the blood.
In addition to these sensors, video and audio monitoring may also be used to allow sleep lab staff and providers to see and hear what's happening while the patient sleeps. This can be useful if any of the sensors give unusual or concerning readings. The recordings also synchronize with sensor data, so a provider interpreting the sensor readings can see and hear what was happening at that exact time.
At-home sleep apnea tests typically include a pulse oximeter to measure blood oxygen saturation levels and heart rate, a finger sensor to detect changes in breathing patterns, and a recording device that is worn like a wristwatch.
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Sleep study preparation
If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend a sleep apnea test, also known as a polysomnogram (PSG), to determine whether you have sleep apnea or another type of sleep disorder. This test can be conducted in a sleep disorder centre or at home, depending on your specific circumstances and your doctor's recommendations. Here are some important things to keep in mind as you prepare for your sleep study:
Medications and Substances
It is important to consult with your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. They will advise you on whether to continue taking them as usual or to stop temporarily before the test. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid caffeine and alcohol on the day of the test, as these substances can interfere with the test results.
Packing List
If you are having an overnight sleep study at a sleep centre or hospital, pack comfortable pyjamas or sleepwear, a book or magazine, and any special items you usually use for sleep, such as a particular pillow. You may also want to bring your toothbrush, clothes for the next day, and any other personal hygiene or grooming items you may need.
Skin and Nails
To ensure the sensors adhere properly to your skin, refrain from using creams, lotions, or hair products before the sleep study. Clean skin without any additional products will help the sensors stay attached and obtain clear readings. Additionally, avoid using nail polish or fake nails, as these can affect the accuracy of certain sensor readings, such as the pulse oximeter that measures your pulse and blood oxygen levels.
Sleep Routine
On the day of the test, maintain your usual routine as much as possible. Avoid taking naps, as this can make it more difficult for you to fall asleep during the sleep study. Sticking to your regular routine will help you sleep more naturally, allowing for more accurate interpretations of the test results.
Pre-Test Procedures
When you arrive at the sleep study location, you will be escorted to your assigned room. You will change into your sleepwear, and the staff will begin the process of attaching the sensors to various parts of your body. Inform the staff if you have sensitive skin or adhesive allergies before they start applying the sensors. They will then calibrate the sensors and perform some simple checks to ensure they are working correctly. After the calibration, you can relax, watch TV, or read until you feel ready to sleep.
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Sleep study results
The Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) is the most important number on your sleep study results if you are concerned about sleep apnea. It will tell you the severity of your sleep apnea. An AHI score of less than 5 is considered normal for an adult, while a score of 4 or lower indicates that you do not have sleep apnea. Scores of 5-15 indicate mild sleep apnea, 15-30 indicate moderate sleep apnea, and scores over 30 indicate severe sleep apnea.
The AHI is calculated by dividing the number of apneas (cessations of breathing for at least 10 seconds) and hypopneas (partial obstructions of the airway resulting in reduced ventilation and oxygen levels) you experienced during the night by the number of hours you slept. For example, if you stopped breathing 20 times and had a partial obstruction 40 times during an 8-hour sleep, your AHI score would be 7.5, indicating mild sleep apnea.
In addition to the AHI, your sleep study results will also include information about your sleep, such as how long you spent in each sleep stage, how often you woke up, whether you had any breathing difficulties, and any unusual brain activity patterns. Your heart rate throughout the night will also be included in the results, as a lower or higher heart rate can indicate a lack of oxygen.
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Frequently asked questions
A sleep apnea test is a diagnostic test that involves recording multiple systems in your body while you sleep. It is also known as a polysomnogram (PSG) or sleep study. The test tracks and records how multiple body systems work while you sleep, including your heart, brain and respiratory system.
A sleep apnea test can be done in a sleep disorder centre or at home. An at-home test is usually recommended for people who are at moderate or high risk for obstructive sleep apnea.
The test involves sensors that track the activity of multiple body systems. These include surface electrodes placed on your face and scalp, belts around your chest and abdomen, and a bandage-like oximeter probe on your finger.
You should avoid caffeine and alcohol for at least eight hours before your test. You should also avoid taking naps during the day of the test. Bring comfortable pyjamas, a book or magazine, and a special pillow if you use one.
