Sleep Apnoea Screening Test
An overnight home test that looks for signs of breathing interruptions during sleep.
What is it?
A sleep apnoea screening test uses a portable device while you sleep at home. Depending on the equipment used, it may record oxygen levels, heart rate, airflow, snoring, breathing effort and body position. It helps identify patterns suggestive of obstructive sleep apnoea. It is a screening or limited sleep study, not always a full hospital polysomnography examination.
Is it for me?
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Pauses in breathing, gasping, choking or snorting during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or falling asleep unintentionally
- Morning headaches, dry mouth or unrefreshing sleep
- Poor concentration, irritability or memory difficulties
- Frequent night-time waking or passing urine repeatedly overnight
- Resistant high blood pressure or other risk factors associated with sleep apnoea
Preparing for your test
- Follow your normal routine unless the clinician gives you different instructions
- Avoid excessive alcohol on the evening of the test, as it can alter breathing during sleep
- Take usual medicines unless advised otherwise and tell the clinician about sleeping tablets, sedatives and respiratory medicines
- Avoid creams or oils where sensors or adhesive patches will be placed
- Keep fingernails free of dark nail polish or artificial nails if a fingertip oxygen sensor is being used, unless the clinic advises otherwise
What to expect
- At the collection or fitting appointment, staff will explain and demonstrate how to position the sensors
- You will wear the equipment for one night in your own bed and should try to sleep as normally as possible
- The device should not be painful, although sensors or straps may feel unfamiliar
- Return the complete equipment at the agreed time so the recording can be downloaded and assessed
- If the recording is incomplete or does not match your symptoms, repeat testing or a more detailed sleep study may be recommended
Practical information
Test setting: The recording is usually completed at home.
Equipment: Handle the device carefully, keep it dry and follow the fitting instructions exactly.
Limitations: A negative screening result does not always exclude sleep apnoea. Results must be considered alongside symptoms, examination and clinical risk.
Next steps: Abnormal results may lead to a medical review, further sleep assessment or discussion of treatment options.
Related services
- Family doctor assessment
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Weight and cardiovascular risk review
- Referral for specialist sleep assessment when indicated
Enquire Now
You can also enquire through reception by calling 2145 3973.