Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study, also known as polysomnography. Here’s how the process works:

1. Initial Consultation: The process begins with a visit to your doctor or a sleep specialist, who will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination.
2. Sleep Study (Polysomnography): You may be referred for an overnight sleep study at a sleep center or provided with a home sleep test. During an overnight sleep study:
   • Sensors are attached to your body to monitor various physiological activities during sleep, such as brain activity, eye movement, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, airflow, and breathing patterns.
   • The data collected helps identify interruptions in breathing, known as apneas or hypopneas, which are characteristic of sleep apnea.
3. Home Sleep Test: For some patients, a home sleep test may be an option. This test involves using a portable device to monitor your breathing, oxygen levels, and airflow while you sleep at home.
4. Diagnosis: The results from the sleep study or home sleep test are analyzed by a sleep specialist, who will determine if you have sleep apnea, the severity of the condition, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan to manage sleep apnea and improve your overall health and quality of life.

Sleep-disordered breathing, such as sleep apnea, can lead to numerous health problems, including cardiovascular issues, daytime fatigue, metabolic disorders such as diabetes, and weight gain. It can also contribute to poor concentration, mood swings, and an increased risk of accidents.

Coverage for sleep apnea treatment varies by insurance plan. Many insurance plans cover diagnostic sleep studies and certain treatment options, such as oral appliances. It’s always recommended that you check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and benefits. Our team is happy to help you navigate costs provided during your consultation.