Home Sleep Apnea Tests Now Possible, But May Underestimate Severity
Sleep apnea, a potentially serious disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts, can now be diagnosed at home. However, at-home tests may underestimate its severity, and specific requirements for candidates are yet to be defined.
Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed using the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which measures significant airway collapses per hour of sleep. A score of five or above indicates a positive diagnosis.
At-home sleep apnea tests, designed for individuals with a high probability of the condition and no major health issues, have a failure rate of around 7% to 8%. These tests measure apneas (cessation of breathing for at least 10 seconds) and hypopneas (partial airway obstruction), specifically detecting the presence of high probability obstructive sleep apnea. They are used to confirm the diagnosis, not to estimate its severity.
Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include snoring, daytime tiredness, and witnessed apneas by a bed partner. Most sleep studies are performed in a sleep laboratory, often located in a hotel rather than a hospital.
At-home sleep apnea tests offer convenience but may underestimate the condition's severity. Further research is needed to establish specific requirements for candidates. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
