Diagnosis
Diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or primary snoring is a crucial step toward better sleep and overall health. At Midwest Dental Sleep Center, we collaborate closely with your healthcare providers to coordinate your care. We can arrange a comprehensive initial evaluation and work together to identify the best treatment options tailored to your needs.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Initial Evaluation
Your journey begins with a visit to your healthcare provider, who will perform a comprehensive physical exam. They will collect detailed information about your medical history and sleep patterns. Be prepared for them to ask about your symptoms and to gather insights from family members or roommates regarding your sleep habits.
If you are identified as being at high risk for a sleep-related breathing disorder, your doctor will likely recommend a sleep study.
2. Types of Sleep Tests
Polysomnogram (PSG):
- What it is: An overnight sleep study conducted in a specialized sleep lab.
- How it works: Supervised by trained sleep technologists, the PSG measures vital functions, including:
- Airflow
- Blood oxygen levels
- Breathing patterns
- Electrical activity of the brain
- Eye movements
- Heart rate
- Muscle activity
- Results: A board-certified sleep physician will analyze the data and provide a definitive diagnosis along with tailored treatment options.
Home Sleep Test (HST):
- What it is: A simplified sleep study conducted in the comfort of your own home.
- How it works: You’ll use a portable device that monitors key parameters, such as:
- Breathing patterns
- Oxygen levels
- Heart rate
- Ideal for: Patients with a high likelihood of OSA who prefer a more convenient testing option.
3. Next Steps
Once your test results are available, your sleep physician will discuss the findings with you. They will determine whether you have obstructive sleep apnea or primary snoring and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your needs.
Your Path to Better Sleep
Obtaining a proper diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment and restful nights. If you suspect you have sleep apnea or are dealing with bothersome snoring, contact us today to schedule your evaluation. We are here to support you every step of the way!