What Happens During a Home Sleep Study?
Your home sleep study will typically begin in the evening when you are preparing for bed. Instead of sleeping in a clinical setting, you will use a portable sleep testing device in your own home.
Before beginning your study, you will receive instructions on how to use the equipment, including how to position the sensors and operate the device. Follow the instructions provided a the time of pickup to ensure the equipment is used correctly.
Once the equipment is in place, you can follow your normal bedtime routine and sleep in your own bed. The device records information throughout the night without requiring you to remain connected to a sleep technologist in a monitoring room.
When you wake up in the morning, you will remove the equipment according to the instructions provided. The device will then need to be returned as directed so.
What if I Need to Cancel My Appointment?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your home sleep study appointment, please contact our office as far in advance as possible.
If you cancel within 24 hours of your appointment you will be charged a late cancellation fee. so please reach out in advance!
What if I Am Running Late?
If you are running late for a scheduled appointment to pick up your home sleep testing equipment or receive instructions, please contact the sleep clinic directly to let us know your estimated arrival time.
If you have already picked up your equipment, follow the instructions provided by our staff regarding when to begin your study. Contact our office if you anticipate a delay that could affect your testing schedule.
Do I Have to Come Pick Up My Home Sleep Study?
Yes, you have to come in and pickup your home sleep study. Sleep Centers of Texas does this process so we can teach and educate you on how to use your home sleep study device, rather than just leave you guessing.
How Should I Prepare for My Home Sleep Study?
Preparing properly can help you obtain a successful recording.
- Maintain your normal sleep schedule. Try to go to bed at your usual time.
- Avoid naps during the day. This may help you sleep normally during the test.
- Prepare your sleeping area. Make sure your bed is comfortable and that you have enough space to use the equipment.
- Follow the equipment instructions. Make sure you understand how to attach the sensors and operate the device before bedtime.
- Keep your skin clean and dry. Avoid applying lotions or other products to areas where sensors will be placed if instructed to do so.
Can I Eat or Drink During a Home Sleep Study?
Unlike an in-lab sleep study, a home sleep study takes place in your own home, so you can follow your normal evening routine. However, certain foods, beverages, and substances may affect your sleep or breathing.
Follow any specific dietary or preparation instructions provided by your physician. Avoid making significant changes to your usual routine unless instructed.
How Will I Sleep With the Sensors Attached?
Home sleep testing devices are designed to be portable and suitable for use while sleeping in your own bed. Depending on the device, you may wear a finger sensor, or a wrist band.
The equipment may feel unfamiliar at first, but most patients can settle into their normal bedtime routine after putting it on. Follow the instructions for securing the wristband or finger sensor without making them unnecessarily tight.
Will the Sensors Cause Discomfort?
The sensors used for home sleep testing are generally noninvasive. You may notice some pressure from the equipment while getting used to wearing it.
If you have sensitive skin, a known skin allergy, or another concern that could affect your ability to use the equipment, notify us before your study.
Can I Take My Usual Medications?
Discuss your medications with your physician before your sleep study if you have questions about how they may affect your results.
Some medications can influence sleep patterns or breathing. However, you should not stop taking prescribed medications unless your physician specifically instructs you to do so.
Follow any medication-related instructions provided by your physician or sleep clinic.
What Happens After My Home Sleep Study?
After completing your home sleep study, you will return the equipment according to the instructions provided.
The recorded information will be reviewed, interpreted, and sent to your primary care physician. The results help your physician determine whether the findings suggest obstructive sleep apnea or another breathing-related concern that can be evaluated with the type of home test performed.
Your physician will discuss the results with you and recommend appropriate next steps. Depending on the findings, this may include treatment options, such as positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, or additional testing.
A home sleep study does not evaluate every sleep disorder and may not provide enough information to make a diagnosis in every case. If the results are inconclusive or your symptoms persist despite a negative test, your physician may recommend an in-lab sleep study.
Schedule Your Home Sleep Study
If you have symptoms such as loud snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing, or excessive daytime sleepiness, talk with your physician about whether a home sleep study is appropriate for you.
Sleep Centers of Texas provides sleep testing services to help patients and their physicians evaluate possible sleep disorders and determine appropriate next steps.
Contact Sleep Centers of Texas to learn more about home sleep testing, equipment instructions, and scheduling your study.