What to expect during your sleep apnea test

Is a sleep apnea test in your future? Maybe you’ve been experiencing some of the signs of obstructive sleep apnea like loud, habitual snoring or unrefreshing sleep¹, or maybe you’re not feeling as energetic and refreshed as you used to during the day.

Remember, you don’t have to struggle with symptoms like this. If you’re experiencing them, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may schedule you for a sleep apnea test to determine whether you have a form of sleep-disordered breathing.

What can you expect from a sleep apnea test? There are two basic options: home sleep apnea testing or an overnight stay at a sleep lab (also known as a sleep center, or sleep testing facility). Your doctor will help you decide which type of sleep apnea test is best for you.

Taking a sleep apnea test at a sleep lab or facility

The traditional way to take a sleep apnea test is by an overnight stay at a sleep lab. Also called a polysomnography test (PSG), this “in-lab” sleep apnea test option requires spending the night in a sleep facility. They’re sometimes located within a larger hospital or medical center, and sometimes in their own stand-alone facilities.

What happens at a sleep lab, exactly? Sensors that monitor bodily functions like heart, brain and muscle activity, as well as eye movements, are placed on your chest, on your head, near your eyelids and on your legs.

You may also be fitted with a nasal device and chest/stomach bands to monitor and measure your breathing, and the lab’s technicians may also film you while you sleep – with your permission, of course – to learn more about your overnight behavior.

Using a home sleep apnea test

The option of taking a sleep apnea test at home is a newer innovation, and thanks to the comfort and convenience it provides, it seems to be quickly turning into the norm.

Home sleep apnea tests are conducted using a special device to measure your sleep patterns during the night. You’ll get instructions on how to use the specific device you’re prescribed. From there, simply follow your normal evening routine.

When you’re ready for sleep, attach the device and start recording. In the morning, you’ll remove the sensor and follow your doctor’s instructions to return it. (You may need to sleep with the device for one to three nights depending on your device and your doctor’s specific recommendation.)

Will your insurance cover a sleep apnea test? Most insurance companies have specific rules for reimbursement and compensation; your doctor will discuss these factors with you and help you determine what kind of sleep apnea test is best for you.

Improve your sleep by taking a sleep test, which can be fast, easy and is covered by many insurance providers.*