Battling chronic fatigue and frequent headaches? Tired of waking in the morning only to feel like a zombie the rest of the day? Ready to fall asleep and actually achieve adequate rest throughout the night? If you answered “yes” to these questions, you are likely suffering from symptoms associated with sleep apnea. Millions of individuals in the United States suffer from this unfortunate condition, but the good news is that with a sleep test in Lawton, you can get the diagnosis you need to begin successful and life-changing treatment. But what is involved with one of these at-home or lab-based sleep studies? Read on to hear from a local expert who can explain.
What Does a Sleep Study Involve?
To receive a formal diagnosis, your sleep professional will recommend an in-office or at-home sleep study. These tests make it possible for experts to analyze data captured while you rest that details whether you have sleep apnea.
If you are to undergo an in-office study, you will be required to stay overnight at a sleep center where technicians will hook you up to various monitors that track your oxygen levels, heart rate, and other defining factors throughout the night. This non-invasive procedure gives your physician a clear look at your breathing and sleeping patterns, allowing them to make a formal diagnosis.
Should you choose an at-home sleep study, your doctor will supply you with a device that is worn on your wrist and attaches to a separate monitor located on your finger. Throughout the night, it will record your heart rate and oxygen saturation. When you wake, you’ll return the device to your physician’s office, allowing them to evaluate the data and determine if you have sleep apnea.
How Can I Prepare?
Preparing for a sleep test is not difficult, nor should you be nervous. The truth is that all you need to do is sleep. Of course, for someone with apnea, this can be difficult. To ensure your results are as accurate as can be, it is best if you:
- Keep a journal in the weeks leading up to your sleep study, as this will track your sleeping patterns. Make sure to bring it with you to your appointment.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, as they may recommend avoiding certain ones to ensure the results are accurate.
- Days before, prepare an overnight bag if you are planning to have an in-office sleep study, as you will need pajamas and a fresh pair of clothes for the following day. You’ll also need your toiletries. Also, if you sleep best with a certain pillow or blanket, bring them as well.
- Do not drink any alcohol the day of your sleep study and avoid any caffeine.
- Try not to nap the day of your test, as this can make it more difficult to get adequate sleep that night.
By following these steps, you can better prepare for your sleep test and get the diagnosis you need to begin effective treatment and start experiencing a better quality of life.
About the Author
Dr. David J. Drummond attended Pahlavi University in Shiraz, Iran, before going to the University of Florida in Gainesville. After graduating, he attended Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago before enlisting in the United States Army Dental Corps. During his tour, he received advanced training in oral surgery, endodontics, pedodontics, and prosthodontics. He and his team of experts offer custom oral appliances as an alternative to a CPAP if you’re struggling with sleep apnea. To learn more about our services and how we can help, contact us at (580) 355-0344.