How do we diagnose obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? In the past, many people had to endure trying to rest in an uncomfortable lab setting. However, to offer our Spring, TX, patients more accurate results (and a more comfortable diagnostic process) we provide a test you can take at home. In today’s blog, we’re looking at how our home-based sleep test works.
The Home Sleep Test
We will send you home with a small device. The device actually measures several factors as you sleep, taking note of an apneic episodes, breathing exertion, and your blood-oxygen levels. When we examine these results, we can identify the presence of sleep apnea and begin treatment to help you breathe easier. The process is comfortable and convenient, and offers greater accuracy as we receive readings from your natural sleeping habits.
Treatment Options
The results will help us decide on the best course of treatment. Often, we will prescribe a personalized sleep solution. Our oral appliances are custom-made, designed based on detailed impressions and measurements of your smile. Worn at night, they fit much like a mouthguard and actually reposition the jaw, a process that keeps airways open throughout the night. You breathe without difficulty and enjoy a good night’s rest. We may also discuss possible changes to your bedtime routine, such as avoiding alcohol and large meals in the two hours before bed, sleeping on your side instead of your back, avoiding screens right before bed (such as TV, computer, and smartphone), and maintaining a regular sleep schedule, which means going to bed and waking up at the same times every day.
When to See Us
Sleep apnea means you often stop breathing in the night, as soft tissues in the throat and mouth collapse and block airflow. The brain wakes you, but you may not remember being woken. However, since this happens hundreds of times a night, you will be deprived of the deep stages of sleep and may encounter daytime drowsiness, headaches, dry mouth, and trouble concentrating on tasks at work or school. Moodiness is common, as is difficulty staying awake while driving. Other symptoms may include waking suddenly in the night gasping for air or choking. If you have encountered one or more of these symptoms, then please contact our team today. We’re ready to offer a thorough diagnosis and help you rest easier with our sleep apnea treatment options. If you have an questions, then please let us know.
Do You Need a Diagnosis?
Don’t continue to struggle with poor sleep and exhaustion, talk to our team about possible solutions. For more information on our personalized sleep solutions and test options, please call Houston Sleep Solutions in Spring, TX, at (281) 320-2000, or in Pearland, TX, at (832) 564-3508.