Sleep Apnea Diagnosis
Three easy ways to detect Sleep Apnea.
Detection is an important and simple step that can put your mind at ease. Check out:
- One way is to ask your partner or a family member if you snore too loudly or if they have noticed that you pause your breathing during sleep . They are often the first to notice. (1.2)
- Another way is to take the Berlin Quiz , a simple test that tells you if you are at risk.
- You can also record yourself sleeping. When you wake up, play the recording to check your breathing.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, schedule a visit to your doctor. Don't forget to bring the (Berlin) Questionnaire “Do I Take Any Risk?” and/or recording your sleep. There are smartphone apps that can help you with this.
Visiting your doctor
When you visit your doctor, he will assess your symptoms and perform a physical exam to see if you need to be referred to a sleep specialist.
If you visit a sleep specialist , they will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history. You will likely have to fill out a form – usually the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (1) – about how sleepy you feel when you are awake.
He will also be able to measure your weight and the circumference of your neck and perform breath tests . If you have symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), your specialist will prescribe a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis.
News and Events
References
1. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, British Lung Foundation, 2014
2. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea- information prescription, www.nhs.uk