What is an in-home sleep study?
An in-home sleep study is a two- to three-night study, a patient undergoes within the comfort of their own home to gain insight into the quality of their sleep. The study is performed using minimally-invasive monitoring equipment that measures pulse, chest movement, body position, oxygen and airflow. That data is then analyzed by a Board Certified Sleep Specialist at Hampton Roads ENT~Allergy to determine if a patient suffers from sleep apnea or other sleep-related conditions.
Who is eligible for an in-home sleep study?
Sleep studies are performed on patients who are experiencing symptoms of poor sleep. Snoring, morning headaches, dry mouth, breathing cessation at night, memory loss, poor concentration and daytime sleepiness are all examples of symptoms that may indicate a sleep disorder. Once these symptoms have been detected, our providers perform a quick 30-second procedure called a laryngoscopy to examine the nose and throat and determine if any structural issues could be causing a patient’s symptoms. If no severe structural issues are detected, the provider may recommend an in-home sleep study and/ or possible surgical options.
What does the study measure?
In-home sleep studies can measure a variety of sleep indicators, including pulse, oxygen and airflow. At Hampton Roads ENT~Allergy we use a variety of small, minimally-invasive machines which can be worn on the chest or placed next to the bed, and will also involve a finger monitor and airflow monitor.
Are there limitations to an in-home sleep study?
For in-home studies to work, patients must wear the equipment for a minimum of 4-hours each night for two to three nights in a row. If patients have difficulty using the machinery or keeping the probes on while asleep our office may recommend a follow-up study in our sleep facility in Williamsburg or Sentara Careplex. Most insurance carriers require an in-home sleep study prior to authorizing a lab-based sleep study.
What happens after an in-home sleep study?
Once our physicians have analyzed the results of an in-home sleep study, there are two likely outcomes. If a patient is determined to have sleep apnea, our providers will work with them to obtain the necessary equipment to treat their condition. If the study rules out sleep apnea, our providers then determine which other sleep conditions may be impacting the patient and may recommend further testing. Restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, hypersomnia or hypoxemia are examples of other common sleep disorders that our clinic can treat.
Why choose Hampton Roads ENT~Allergy for my sleep study?
Our practice offers exceptional quality sleep care that is convenient for patients to access. While other practices have wait times of 2-4 months for a sleep study, we are typically able to accommodate patients within one week of determining that they are eligible. Additionally, we work with patients to offer convenient sleep study options that match their symptoms and lifestyle.
Call our Hampton office at (757) 825-2500 or our Williamsburg office at (757) 253-8722 for more information or to schedule an appointment.