At-Home Sleep Apnea Tests Offer Faster Diagnosis Without Clinic Stays
At-home sleep apnea tests are now available for people showing strong signs of the condition. These kits help confirm a diagnosis without an overnight stay in a clinic. They are designed for those with symptoms like loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or observed breathing pauses during sleep.
The test works by tracking breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and heart rate while the user sleeps. A small device, worn before bed, records data overnight and is returned the next day for analysis. The results calculate the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which counts breathing interruptions per hour.
For those with clear symptoms, an at-home test offers a convenient first step in diagnosing sleep apnea. The results help doctors decide if further treatment is needed. However, a follow-up in a sleep clinic may still be required for a full evaluation.
