A home sleep study is a test that is used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea or other sleep-related disorders. A small, portable device will be mailed to your home along with instructions on how to use it. Its incredibly convenient for many patients in that the test is self-administered and allows one to sleep naturally in their own bed instead of a facility in which youre not used to sleeping. Since the device is relatively small, patients are free to get up and use the bathroom without difficulty if needed. Most sleep study devices monitor all of the following bodily activities:
- - Breathing: elastic belt bands will be placed across your chest.
- - Respiratory airflow: a thin wire with sensors will be taped by your nose and mouth.
- - Oxygen in the blood: a small clip with a sensor will be secured over one fingertip to measure oxygen levels in the blood while you sleep.