Home Sleep Study

Are you having trouble sleeping at night?

Diagnose the reason why you have insomnia with an at home sleep study test today. Our highly trained sleep doctors at My Concierge MD can help diagnose and treat the underlying reason for your difficulty in sleeping so you can finally receive the sleep that you deserve. Our state of the art sleep center & sleep medicine clinic is equipped with the most advanced equipment for digital polysomnography.

At home sleep study tests have advanced dramatically over the last few years. For most cases you do not need to sleep in a sleep lab to get tested for obstructive sleep apnea and a variety of other sleep disorders. Simplified overnight cardio respiratory studies or at home sleep studies can be used to do an in home sleep apnea test with accurate results. An in home sleep apnea test and obstructive sleep apnea treatment are easily arranged by our sleep doctors. Sleep deprivation can have many negative health effects and thus treatment of sleeping disorders are cruicial.

Do you need an at home sleep study?

Our Beverly Hills sleep study clinic provides at home sleep study testing throughout the Los Angeles area. Please provide us with your contact information in the Contact Us page or call 877-760-3570 so that we may schedule you for your appointment. Our state of the art sleep center will make your sleep study an easy and enjoyable experience.

What is an at home sleep study?

An at home sleep study is diagnostic tool used by sleep study clinics to evaluate a person’s sleep patterns and identify any potential sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, periodic lymb movement disorder, REM sleep behavioral disorder, bruxism, and parasomnia. An at home sleep study is conducted at ones home rather than in a sleep clinic lab.

What equipment do you use for at home sleep study?

We use the watchpat one at home test. This is a very advanced testing equipment that records a variety of parameters and can easily help diagnose a variety of sleep disorders and conditions. It is a very cost effective sleep testing device and is disposable; meaning once the test is done it automatically will send the data and there is no need to return it to the office. This is very convenient for patients and who want to take an at home sleep study!

Conditions that can be diagnosed with an at home sleep study

Sleep studies are performed to identify specific sleep patterns and diagnose potential sleep disorders. Some of the most common sleep disorders that can be diagnosed through an at home sleep study include:

  1. Insomnia – general term for difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
  2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea – Is a disorder characterized by apneas or hypoapnea which refers to pauses in breathing and a drop in oxygen saturations while you sleep. The reason for the apnea episodes is due to the airways becoming blocked by the collapse of the soft tissue in the back of the throat called the soft palate. The decrease in oxygen levels causes the person to wake up multiple times throughout the night.
    1. The severity of OSA is measured by the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI). AHI calculates the average number of apnea and hypopnea episodes per hour of sleep. OSA can range from mild (AHI between 5-15) to severe (AHI greater than 30).
  3. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) – is a neurological disorder that accompanies an uncomfortable sensation in the legs that can cause difficulty falling asleep. Patients with restless leg syndrome often report an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. They often also complain of uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, burning, or aching. This activity causes patients to have difficulty sleeping.
  4. Narcolepsy – Refers to excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks
  5. Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) – is associated with repetitive movements of the limbs during sleep which keep one awake
  6. REM sleep behavior disorder – characterized by the acting out of vivid and often violent dreams
  7. Bruxism – Patients with bruxism are often grinding their teeth or clenching their jaw during sleep
  8. Parasomnia – Refers to abnormal behaviors during sleep that patients are not aware of. These behaviors can include sleepwalking, night terrors, and sleep talking.

What paramaters are recorded by a sleep study?

  1. Electroencephalogram (EEG) – records brain activity to identify different stages of sleep
  2. Electrooculogram (EOG) – records eye movement to track the onset and duration of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep
  3. Electromyogram (EMG) – records muscle activity to identify any movements or twitching during sleep
  4. Electrocardiogram (ECG) – records the electrical activity of the heart to detect any abnormalities
  5. Respiratory Effort – records the effort made by the person in breathing, this can be done through chest and abdominal movement sensors or nasal cannula.
  6. Oxygen Saturation – records the amount of oxygen in the blood, indicating any breathing problems such as sleep apnea
  7. Snoring and body position – Snoring is recorded by microphone and body position is recorded by accelerometer.

What are the types of sleep study tests?

There are several different types of sleep study tests performed to evaluate ones sleep patterns and identify sleep disorders. There are 4 types of sleep tests. Type 1 and 2 sleep tests, such as in-lab polysomnography, collect more detailed data than at home sleep study tests. Type 3 and 4 tests, such as home sleep apnea tests, collect less data and typically involve fewer devices.

Common devices used for sleep study tests include:

  • Breathing sensor, such as a nasal cannula or nasal prongs, which track air pressure during breathing;
  • An effort belt, which measures chest or abdominal movements associated with breathing
  • A pulse oximeter, which measures oxygen levels in the blood
  • A microphone, which records snoring.

All of these devices are connected to a data collection device that records and stores the data. In some cases, specialty devices may also be used to measure other parameters related to sleep apnea, such as the Apnea Risk Evaluation System (ARES).

The Apnea Risk Evaluation System (ARES) is a device that is used in conjunction with standard home sleep apnea testing devices to provide a more complete picture of a person’s sleep patterns. The ARES system involves monitoring many of the same parameters as a standard home sleep apnea test, such as breathing patterns and oxygen levels, but it also measures head position and movement.

The device worn on a headband that records the head position and movement, this can detect positional obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) which is caused by the position of the person during sleep. The ARES system is designed to detect positional OSA which is a subtype of OSA that occurs when a person sleeps on their back and their soft tissue collapses in the airway.

The device is usually used in cases where the standard home sleep study test for sleep apnea are inconclusive or when the patient is suspected to have positional OSA.

Some of the most common types of sleep study tests include:

  1. Polysomnography (PSG): This is the most common type of sleep study test and is typically conducted in a sleep lab. It involves the use of multiple sensors and monitors to record brain activity, eye movement, muscle activity, heart rate, and breathing patterns.
  2. Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT): This test is conducted at home and uses portable equipment to monitor breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and other indicators of sleep apnea.
  3. Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT): This test is used to measure a person’s daytime sleepiness and is typically conducted in a sleep lab. It involves taking several “naps” throughout the day and measuring the time it takes to fall asleep.
  4. Actigraphy: This test uses a small device worn on the wrist to track a person’s movements and sleep patterns over a period of several days or weeks.
  5. Portable Monitoring: This test involves using a device that records a person’s oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing patterns while they sleep.
  6. WatchPAT: This test is a home-based study which includes a disposable device worn on the finger to measure different parameters such as oxygen level and pulse rate.

It’s important to note that the type of sleep study test used will depend on the specific sleep disorder suspected and the patient’s needs. A sleep specialist will be able to recommend the most appropriate test for you after evaluating your symptoms and medical history.

How does getting an at home sleep study work?

A home sleep study, also known as a home sleep apnea test, is a diagnostic tool used to evaluate a person’s sleep patterns and identify any potential sleep disorders. The process typically involves several steps:

  1. Meeting with a medical professional: If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or another sleep disorder, you will first make an appointment with your doctor. They may refer you to a sleep specialist or clinic for further evaluation.
  2. Meeting with a sleep specialist: The sleep specialist will ask more detailed questions and determine if a home sleep study is the best option for you. They will order the test and provide instructions on how to obtain the necessary equipment.
  3. Obtaining a home sleep study equipment: You will then receive equipment such as sensors and monitors to measure various aspects of your sleep, such as brain activity, eye movement, and breathing patterns. Staff will walk you through how to use each device.
  4. Carrying out the test: You will then carry out the test at home, following the instructions provided and trying to sleep at your normal times. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can affect your sleep.
  5. Returning the equipment: You will then return the equipment to the sleep lab or clinic for analysis.
  6. Learning the results: Once the data has been analyzed, your doctor or sleep specialist will discuss the results with you. They may give you a sleep apnea diagnosis and prescribe treatment such as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, or they might ask you to undergo an in-lab sleep study if the results are inconclusive.

Sleep deprivation

Sleep deprivation is the condition of not having adequate amount of sleep. Sleep deprivation can be either acute or chronic. Lack of sleep can affect the brain and cognitive function.

Types of sleep disorders?

There are many different disorders of sleep and waking. Many suffer from insomnia, a disorder with falling and staying asleep. Others may have difficulty with excessive daytime sleepiness, while some have problems with sticking to a regular sleep schedule. Unusual behaviors during another subsets of sleep problems relates to sleep-disruptive behaviors.

Insomnia

The definition of insomnia is the repeated difficulty with the initiation, duration, maintenance, or quality of sleep despite the opportunity and time for sleep. Insomnia can be a symptom of a number of underlying medical or psychiatric conditions. One of our trained physicians can diagnose and treat the reason for your insomnia so that you can enjoy a good night’s rest.

How to fall asleep?

There are many factors that may affect one’s ability to fall asleep and stay sleep.  Many factors such as habits, psychological elements such as stress, depression, anxiety play a role in the way we fall asleep and stay sleep. Many of us have had difficulty sleeping at one point in our lives and there are methods that do help with falling asleep and staying sleep. Eating well, use of imagination and relaxation techniques as well as habits can help you sleep better at night.

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  • Foods that are known to assist in sleep include: carbohydrates, bananas, peanuts, figs and milk-based drinks. These food sources all contain tryptophans, a precursor for creating melatonin. Snacks that may help you sleep include: cookies and milk or sliced banana with chopped dates. For a better sleep you should avoid foods with high protein prior to bedtime as well as decrease your intake of alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and sugar.
  • Avoid exercise in the 3-4 hours prior to your bedtime. Exercise awakens you! Instead, exercise in the morning as it helps you wake up!
  • Avoid naps during the day
  • Form a bedtime routine
  • Choose a comfortable position
  • Reduce noise and fix the lighting
  • Reduce your stress level
  • Accept a set bedtime every night
  • Prepare a comfortable space to sleep in
  • Remove all mind stimulating devices
  • Have a warm bath prior to bedtime
  • Wear comfortable clothing
  • Set an ideal temperature
  • Relax and use breathing techniques

What is obstructive sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common and usually an undiagnosed condition that disrupts sleep. Patients suffering from sleep apnea have one or more pauses or shallow breathing while sleeping. Breathing pauses can last from few seconds to minutes and then starts again sometimes with a loud snort or chocking sound. Sleep apnea is usually a chronic condition and the person suffering from it is not aware of the pauses in breathing but finds himself or herself with daytime sleepiness.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete blockage of the airway during sleep. This blockage is caused by the collapse of the soft tissue in the back of the throat, which prevents air from flowing into the lungs. As a result, the person will experience pauses in breathing, called apneas, which can last from a few seconds to several minutes. This can happen several times throughout the night, leading to poor quality sleep and a number of negative health consequences.

OSA is a common disorder, affecting an estimated 18 million Americans. It occurs more frequently in men than in women, and it is more common in older adults, although it can occur at any age. Risk factors for OSA include obesity, smoking, alcohol use, and certain medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea can lead to daytime drowsiness, fatigue, poor concentration, and an increased risk of accidents, as well as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. People who suspect they have OSA should consult a sleep specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How under-diagnosed is sleep apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common but under diagnosed sleep disorder. It is estimated that as many as 80% of people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed. This is due to a number of factors, including the fact that many people with sleep apnea do not experience obvious symptoms, or they do not seek medical attention for their symptoms. Additionally, many people with sleep apnea may not be aware that they have the disorder, as the symptoms can be subtle and may be mistaken for other conditions such as insomnia, or simply being tired or fatigued.

How under-diagnosed is sleep apnea

Some of the factors that contribute to the under-diagnosis of sleep apnea include:

  • Lack of awareness about this condition among the general public
  • Difficulty in identifying the symptoms of sleep apnea
  • Limited access to sleep specialists and testing equipment
  • Limited resources for sleep studies
  • A lack of understanding of the potential consequences of untreated sleep apnea

Due to the high rate of undiagnosed sleep apnea, it is important for people who suspect they have the disorder to seek medical attention, especially if they have risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, or diabetes. A sleep specialist can evaluate symptoms and recommend the appropriate diagnostic tests, such as a polysomnography or home sleep apnea test, to confirm a diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when your breathing is interrupted during sleep, for longer than 10 seconds at least 5 times per hour (on average) throughout your sleep period. These periods are called hypopneas when your breathing is reduced and you’re not taking in enough oxygen. They’re called apneas if your breathing completely stops. Your breathing typically stops because something is blocking your upper airway, such as the muscles, tongue, and other body tissues. Obstructive sleep apnea can range from moderate to severe, based on a measurement and rating system called the

What is the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI)?

The AHI measures an average number of apnea and hypopnea episodes that you experience per hour that you sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is classified by severity:

Severe obstructive sleep apnea means that your AHI is greater than 30 (more than 30 episodes per hour)

Moderate obstructive sleep apnea means that your AHI is between 15 and 30

Mild obstructive sleep apnea means that your AHI is between 5 and 15

What is the most common type of sleep apnea?

The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea which often means that the airway has collapsed or is blocked during sleep.

What does sleep apnea cause?

Sleep apnea causes poor sleep quality and sleepiness during the day.

What are the risks associated with sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea increases the risk of hypertension or high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attacks, stroke, obesity and diabetes, heart failure, arrhythmias and or irregular heartbeats and the chance of having work-related or driving accidents.

Who is at risk of sleep apnea?

Millions of people suffer from obstructive sleep apnea and more than half of the people who suffer from this sleep disorder are overweight. This condition is more common in males and becomes more common as you get older. It is also thought that you are more likely to develop sleep apnea if a member in your family suffers from this sleep disorder.

What are the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea?

The most common sign of obstructive sleep apnea is ongoing snoring. Patients may also suffer from pauses and gasping while sleeping. Patients with this sleep disorder most likely do not know that they are having problems with breathing or are able to judge the severity of their problem. A family member or bed partner will often discover these problems before you are aware of them.

Other common signs of sleep apnea are sleepiness during the day, at work or while driving. Patients just don’t feel as though they have had a good night’s rest. Some other signs and symptoms of sleep apnea may include:  morning headaches, memory or problems with learning, feeling irritable or depressed, a dry throat upon awakening.

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How is obstructive sleep apnea diagnosed?

Our experienced doctors will diagnose sleep apnea based on your medical history, family history, a comprehensive physical exam, and results of a sleep study performed at our state of the art facility. Our sleep specialists will then discuss treatment options with you.

What is a sleep study?

A sleep study is the most accurate test to diagnose sleep apnea. A polysomnogram is the most common sleep study to diagnose sleep apnea. Our sleep lab will record your brain activity, eye movement and other muscle activity, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, the amount of air that moves in and out of your lungs while sleeping and the amount of oxygen in your blood.

A polysomnogram is painless and is performed at our sleep center while you sleep. You will go to sleep as usual except you will have sensors attached to your body and our staff at the sleep center will monitor your sleep and results of the study throughout the night.

How is sleep apnea treated?

There are different treatment options used for the treatment of sleep apnea and different sleep disorders. The treatment of sleep apnea may include lifestyle changes, mouthpieces, breathing devices and surgery.

What lifestyle changes will help me sleep better? How can I sleep with sleep apnea?

You should make an appointment to see one of our trained concierge physicians in order to correctly diagnose the reason for your poor sleep during the night and to begin proper treatment.

The following lifestyle changes may aid in sleep and help you go to sleep:

  • Avoid drinking alcohol or any medications that make you sleepy. They may make it harder for your throat to stay ajar while you sleep.
  • Sleeping on your side instead of your back may help your throat stay open.
  • Quit smoking if you are a smoker.
  • Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.
  • Use nasal sprays or allergy medications if needed to keep your nasal passages open at night.
  • Avoid eating late at night.

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Mouthpieces may be helpful in some with mild cases of sleep apnea. A dentist or orthodontist can make a custom fit mouthpiece that can help treat sleep apnea.

Breathing devices such as a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is the most common treatment option for moderate to severe sleep apnea in adults.

Some patients who suffer from sleep apnea will benefit from surgery. The type of surgery is dependent on the cause of the sleep apnea.

How Do I Start?

For questions or to schedule your sleep test and sleep center appointment with My Concierge MD, please fill in the form under Contact us or call 877-760-3570 today.  It could be your first step toward a better night’s sleep!

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30228558/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28162150/

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/clinical-presentation-and-diagnosis-of-obstructive-sleep-apnea-in-adults

Author: David Nazarian, M.D.

Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Specialist in Concierge Medicine & Executive Health. Dr. Nazarian practices Integrative Medicine with focus on preventative medicine, anti-aging, hormone replacement therapy and IV Vitamin optimizations. Dr. David Nazarian, received his bachelor of sciences from the University of Los Angeles, California in Psychology and Biology. He obtained his Medical Doctorate degree from Sackler School of Medicine. He completed his medical residency at Huntington Memorial Hospital, a University of Southern California affiliate hospital. Once completed, he established a practice in the heart of Beverly Hills. Dr. Nazarian is a Diplomat of the American Board of Internal Medicine. He has received numerous awards and recognition as a top doctor in his field.