Getting your sleep apnea test results back from a home test generally takes 10-14 business days.
Sleep studies are conducted to diagnose sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea or central sleep apnea. Traditionally, these tests are done in a lab overnight and the results can take up to two weeks to interpret. During this time, the patient must wait for the results before they can begin treatment for their condition.
Fortunately, home sleep apnea tests are becoming increasingly popular due to their accuracy and faster results. These tests involve wearing a device at home that monitors your breathing patterns while you sleep.
The data is then sent to a doctor who will analyze it and provide a diagnosis within days or even hours of the test being completed. Home sleep apnea tests are more convenient than traditional lab-based tests and can provide quicker relief for those suffering from sleep disorders.
How long do sleep apnea test results take?
Sleep studies are important for diagnosing and treating sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. There are two types of sleep studies that can be done: polysomnography and home sleep apnea test (HSAT). Polysomnography is an in-lab test that takes one night of about 8 to 9 hours of preparation and testing. The doctors may ask the patient to come for the test for 1 or 2-3 nights if they need additional information.
On the other hand, a HSAT is more comfortable, still very accurate, and does not take time for any preparation. The patient will just have to attach the NightOwl to their finger before they go for a night’s sleep. Polysomnography results usually take about 2 to 3 months because they test severe conditions which takes time to prepare.
However, a HSAT test can be completed in only one night (24 hours), in some circumstances, and results are available within 10-14 business days after the study has been completed. Both tests provide valuable information on a person’s sleeping patterns and can help diagnose and treat various sleeping disorders. It is important to consult with your doctor before deciding which type of sleep study is best suited for you.
The At-Home Testing Process
The home sleep test process can be intimidating for many people. Traditional tests involve wearing a device across the chest, a pulse oximeter on the finger and a few chest sensors. This can feel uncomfortable and invasive, making it difficult to fall asleep in the first place. After the test is complete, you must mail the device back to the testing center for results to be reviewed.
Not now! Most of these devices are now disposable, like the NightOwl, which is only 1 ounce and connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone and the NightOwl Companion app.
This makes it much easier and more comfortable for patients to take their tests at home without having to worry about mailing anything back afterwards. The NightOwl also provides accurate results that are easy to interpret, so you can get your answers quickly and accurately.
What do the test results show?
A sleep study is a valuable tool for determining if someone has obstructive sleep apnea. The NightOwl home sleep apnea test is a disposable device that is secured to the finger using adhesive strips and uses an infrared sensor to measure blood oxygen saturation, pulse rate, and peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT). This data can then be used to determine the total amount of time spent sleeping as well as the percentage of time spent with apnea events.
The results from a sleep study can provide insight into how well someone is sleeping and whether or not they are at risk for developing more serious health issues due to their lack of quality rest. It can also help doctors make decisions about treatments such as CPAP therapy or lifestyle changes that may help improve the patient’s overall quality of life. With this information, patients can take steps towards improving their health and getting better rest.
What happens after the sleep apnea test?
After a sleep study, the results are used to diagnose any potential sleep disorders. If a diagnosis of sleep apnea is confirmed, patients will generally be notified about CPAP therapy. CPAP is considered standard for sleep apnea treatment and works by sending pressurized air into a patient airway to keep it open throughout the night.
Patients can also schedule follow-up appointments with their physician to help continue their sleep care journey. This allows them to get personalized advice on how best to manage their condition and ensure they are getting adequate restful sleep each night.
