Sleep Apnea Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis of sleep apnea requires professional medical evaluation and specialized testing. Learn about the diagnostic process, types of sleep studies, and what to expect during evaluation.
Professional Evaluation Required: Sleep apnea diagnosis must be performed by qualified healthcare professionals using specialized equipment and testing methods.
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis of sleep apnea requires a comprehensive evaluation including medical history, physical examination, and specialized sleep studies to determine the type and severity.
Medical History & Physical Exam
Initial evaluation by healthcare provider
- Review of symptoms and sleep patterns
- Medical history assessment
- Physical examination of airway
- Neck circumference measurement
- Blood pressure and vital signs
Sleep Questionnaires
Standardized assessment tools
- Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS)
- Berlin Questionnaire
- STOP-BANG questionnaire
- Sleep apnea screening tools
- Quality of life assessments
Sleep Studies
Comprehensive sleep evaluation
- Polysomnography (PSG) - Gold standard
- Home sleep apnea testing (HSAT)
- Multiple sleep latency test (MSLT)
- Maintenance of wakefulness test (MWT)
- Actigraphy for sleep patterns
Sleep Study Options
Polysomnography (PSG)
Sleep Lab
Overnight
Measures:
- • Brain activity (EEG)
- • Eye movements (EOG)
- • Muscle activity (EMG)
- • Heart rhythm (ECG)
- • Breathing patterns
- • Blood oxygen levels
- • Body position
Advantages:
- • Most comprehensive evaluation
- • Monitored by sleep technologist
- • Accurate diagnosis of all sleep disorders
- • Can adjust CPAP during study
Disadvantages:
- • Expensive
- • Requires overnight stay
- • May affect normal sleep
- • Limited availability
Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT)
Home
1-3 nights
Measures:
- • Breathing patterns
- • Blood oxygen levels
- • Heart rate
- • Body position
- • Snoring sounds
Advantages:
- • More comfortable and convenient
- • Less expensive
- • Sleep in familiar environment
- • Faster results
Disadvantages:
- • Less comprehensive
- • May miss other sleep disorders
- • Technical issues possible
- • Not suitable for all patients
Severity Classification
Mild
5-15 events/hour
Minimal impact on daily life
Symptoms:
Occasional snoring, mild daytime sleepiness
Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, positional therapy
Moderate
15-30 events/hour
Noticeable impact on quality of life
Symptoms:
Regular snoring, moderate sleepiness, morning headaches
Treatment:
CPAP therapy, oral appliances
Severe
>30 events/hour
Significant health risks
Symptoms:
Loud snoring, severe sleepiness, health complications
Treatment:
CPAP therapy, surgery consideration
Professional Diagnosis Required
Sleep apnea diagnosis requires professional medical evaluation. Self-diagnosis is not possible, and sleep studies must be interpreted by qualified sleep medicine specialists. If you suspect sleep apnea, consult with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and testing.
Don't Let Sleep ApneaAffect Your Quality of Life
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, don't wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your health and quality of life.
Useful Tools for Better Health
Discover helpful tools to improve your overall health and wellness
Self Assessment
Complete sleep quality assessment questionnaire
Schedule Consultation
Find nearby sleep medicine specialists
Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Medical Attention
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional immediately. Early intervention can prevent serious complications.
Breathing Issues
HighFrequent breathing cessation during sleep (observed by others)
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
HighExtreme daytime sleepiness affecting daily activities
Drowsy Driving
CriticalFrequent drowsiness or falling asleep while driving
Morning Symptoms
MediumSevere morning headaches and dry mouth
Nighttime Disturbances
HighFrequent nighttime awakenings with choking sensation
Cognitive Decline
HighSevere decline in attention and significant memory loss
This information is for educational purposes only. If you experience severe symptoms or breathing difficulties, seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services.
Positive Impact of Sleep Apnea Treatment
Don't let sleep apnea continue to affect your health - Take action now!