Home sleep apnea testing provides your neurologist with the information needed to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea. It allows you to sleep at home wearing equipment that collects information about how you breathe during sleep. You will usually set up the testing equipment yourself.
There are a variety of home sleep apnea testing devices that have different sensors and equipment. These devices measure your breathing and blood oxygen level. Some also may measure your heart rate or other information about your body.
Home sleep apnea testing is used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea. A physician may recommend home sleep apnea testing if:
- It is highly likely that you have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea
- You have no significant medical conditions other than the suspected obstructive sleep apnea
You should not have a home sleep apnea test if:
- You do not have a high risk of obstructive sleep apnea
- The physician suspects you may have another sleep disorder
- You have certain medical conditions including pulmonary diseases, neuromuscular diseases, or congestive heart failure
In these cases, your physician may recommend an in-lab sleep study instead of a home sleep apnea test. An in-lab sleep study provides the most complete evaluation of your sleep.