How to Find Out Whether You Have Sleep Apnea

The quickest useful route to finding out whether you have sleep apnea is to arrange an appropriate assessment. A shortcut that provides an unreliable answer can delay the care you need.

Start with the concern

Tell a clinician about witnessed breathing pauses, gasping or significant daytime sleepiness. Include the effect on daily life and how long the problem has been present. You do not need a recording or a consumer-device score before seeking advice.

Use screening tools for their proper purpose

A questionnaire can help identify possible risk. A phone recording may capture sound. Neither establishes the type or severity of a breathing disorder, and a reassuring result should not override concerning symptoms.

Ask about sleep testing

A clinician can decide which sleep assessment is appropriate and explain how it works. Follow the clinic’s preparation instructions. Ask what happens if the recording is incomplete or the result does not explain continuing symptoms.

Review the result with a professional

Discuss what was found and the next step. Do not select surgery or a breathing device from a quick online checklist. If you already receive treatment, keep it in place until a change is agreed with the professional managing your care.

Keep reading

• Sleep Apnea Diagnosis: Preparing for Assessment

Sources and further reading

• NHLBI: Sleep apnea diagnosis
• AASM: Consumer sleep technology position statement

Published by TannerMedico A/S, the manufacturer of Asonor. This article provides general information for adults and does not replace individual medical advice.