What is a Sleep Study?
A Sleep Study is done to diagnose Obstructive Sleep Apnoea as well as other sleep disorders including narcolepsy, movement disorders and parasomnias.
As the gold standard in sleep diagnostics, Level 1 sleep studies are vital because they are the only studies able to be fully customizable to ensure assessment of any sleep disorder, as well the effectiveness of an existing treatment for a sleep disorder. They are also the only study type with real time monitoring by trained technicians to ensure data integrity.
A level 2 (or home) study has fewer signals and is specifically designed for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea in people without other co-morbid conditions.
Do I need a Sleep Study?
Determining whether you require a sleep study depends on your symptoms and medical history. If you're experiencing persistent issues like loud snoring, interrupted breathing during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness or other sleep-related problems, it's adviseable to consult your doctor. They can assess your situation and recommend a sleep study if they deem it necessary. Take the sleep assessment to find out if you should make an appointment to see your doctor.
Which Sleep Study is right for me?
Level 1 sleep studies are recommended for anyone:
- with comorbid conditions (eg cardiac or respiratory conditions)
- wanting a sleep study to be conducted with the piece of mind that comes from having real-time monitoring so there is never any chance of a study failing due to sensors falling off
- suspected of having any sleep disorder other than simply obstructive sleep apnoea (eg complex sleep apnoea, narcolepsy/idiopathic hypersomnia, restless legs syndrome/periodic limb movement disorder, parasomnia, insomnia).
- who is on therapy for a sleep disorder (eg CPAP) but wants it assessed because it is not as effective as it used to be
- who wants a dedicated and controlled environment free from family or household disruption
Level 2 studies are recommended for anyone
- suspected of only obstructive sleep apnoea who are otherwise healthy and prefer to do a sleep study at home