Patients can take a home sleep apnea test in their own home to determine if they have sleep apnea.  Patient may come into the sleep center to pick up equipment for their home sleep test. We will demonstrate to them how to perform the test, including how to use the machine and equipment properly. The patient goes home and performs the test. The data obtained is stored on the equipment and is uploaded at the sleep center after the unit is returned. Home sleep tests are designed to provide patients with a convenient way to get the test done while allowing us to collect important information on how they sleep and make a diagnosis of OSA. Click here for HST Instructions.

Click below to learn how to use the ApneaLink™ Air Home Sleep Testing Device

Video for reference only. Courtesy of Resmed.

Polysomnography, also known as an attended overnight sleep study, is conducted in a facility based sleep lab where you are continually monitored by a trained sleep technologist. During the study, electrodes and sensors are gently applied allowing us to assess your stages of sleep by recording brainwaves (EEG), eye movements (EOG), and muscle tone (chin EMG).  Your breathing patterns will be assessed with sensors that measure airflow, respiratory effort, oxygen saturation, and snoring. Leg movements and heart rate are monitored as well.

Because of this difference, an HST can be used to diagnose but not rule out obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It can detect other sleep-related disorders, but an in-lab study may be needed for diagnostic purpose.

As a result of your initial sleep study (PSG), you may be diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and may be sent by back to the sleep center for another overnight sleep study with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP). These forms of therapy are the most effective and widely used methods of treating sleep apnea. During the titration, the patient wears a mask and pressures are trialed up and down during sleep to find the optimal pressure level and setting to control apnea events

The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) tests are for measuring excessive daytime sleepiness. Also known as a daytime nap study, the MSLT is the standard tool used to diagnose narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. The MSLT is a full-day test that consists of five scheduled naps at 2 hour intervals. During each nap trial, you will lie quietly in bed and try to go to sleep. Once the lights go off, the test will measure how long it takes for you to fall asleep.