Sleep Lab
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis
What
Sleep apnea is a common condition in the United States. It can occur when the upper airway becomes blocked repeatedly during sleep, reducing or completely stopping airflow. This is known as obstructive sleep apnea. If the brain does not send the signals needed to breathe, the condition may be called central sleep apnea.
How
Sleep apnea has many different possible causes. In adults, the most common cause of obstructive sleep apnea is excess weight and obesity, which is associated with soft tissue of the mouth and throat. During sleep, when throat and tongue muscles are more relaxed, this soft tissue can cause the airway to become blocked.
Why
Breathing devices such as continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machines and lifestyle changes are common sleep apnea treatments.
Details
In-office Sleep Study
A sleep study is a non-invasive, overnight exam that allows doctors to monitor you while you sleep to see what's happening in your brain and body. For this test, you will go to a sleep lab that is set up for overnight stays—usually in a hospital or sleep center.
At Home Sleep Study
Depending on the test you receive, it will have a pulse meter to wear on your finger with a heart rate monitor to wear on your chest and an air flow sensor for your nose. After putting on your equipment, turn the device on with a touch of a button before bed and turn it off when you wake up in the morning.
