Grappling with the frequent waking, daytime drowsiness and snoring that sleep apnea brings is a frustrating experience. When we suspect obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), we’ll likely recommend a sleep study.
There are two types of sleep studies: in-lab and at-home. Let’s look at the difference between the two studies to help you decide whether an at-home study is right for you.
Home Testing vs. Lab Testing
In-lab sleep studies use sensors that track brain wave activity, heart electrical activity, eye movements, oxygen levels and breathing patterns. They’re the most effective method for diagnosing simple and complex obstructive sleep apnea.
In-lab sleep studies don’t use all the same sensors. They may omit those that track brainwave activity, eye movements and heart electrical activity.
What Are the Limitations of an In-Home Sleep Study?
There are a few limitations of in-home sleep studies. Because they use fewer sensors than in-lab studies, the tests can underestimate the severity of sleep apnea. They cannot diagnose other potential causes of your sleep problems, such as narcolepsy.
In-home studies are also more prone to technical malfunctions, like sensors being placed in the wrong spots or falling off while you sleep.
When Would a Sleep Specialist Recommend an In-Home Sleep Study?
We’ll likely prescribe an in-home study if we strongly suspect that you have OSA or if your medical circumstances have changed significantly since your initial OSA diagnosis. Two common examples of substantive changes include weight loss and corrective surgery.
What Are the Benefits of an In-Home Sleep Study?
Many patients worry that they won’t be able to sleep normally in an in-lab study. One of the main benefits of an in-home sleep study is that you get to do it from the comfort of your own bed. An in-home study also means that you won’t have to wait for an in-lab appointment to open.
How Do I Prepare for an In-Home Study?
If your sleep specialist recommends an in-home sleep study, you’ll need to make sure that you don’t consume caffeine or alcohol the day of the study and avoid afternoon naps that could prevent you from falling asleep. Before you go to bed, you only need to attach the sensors to your finger, wrist and chest, then go to sleep like normal.
What Happens After the Study?
If the study indicates that you have sleep apnea, or gives a negative result but symptoms persist, we may recommend an in-lab study. Whether or not you take an in-lab study will vary on a case-by-case basis.
If we identify sleep apnea, we’ll walk you through the different options, including a CPAP machine, lifestyle changes, surgery and other options.
If you’re ready to schedule your sleep apnea test or a consultation with one of our sleep specialists, call Southeast Texas Ear, Nose & Throat, LLP today.
