The most common signs of sleep apnea testing are daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, and gasping or choking while breathing during sleep. If these symptoms persist for two or more weeks, talk to your doctor about a sleep apnea test.

There are several different tests for sleep apnea, including at-home and overnight studies. The at-home test, which is prescribed by a doctor, usually requires you to wear a wristwatch-like device that monitors key vital indicators including your heart rate, oxygen level, chest movement, and snoring during the night. A physician interprets the results to determine if you have apnea and recommends treatment.

Sleep Apnea Testing: What You Should Know Before Getting Tested

An overnight sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is a more comprehensive exam. A technician monitors you while you sleep at a sleep lab and collects many more signals than an at-home test. The data is interpreted by your doctor who may recommend a treatment such as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, mouth guard to prevent teeth grinding while sleeping, or mandibular advancement device to open the airway.

Another office-based test is nasopharyngoscopy, an outpatient procedure where a flexible fiberoptic endoscope is used to examine the nasal and throat structures for structural problems that restrict airflow and cause snoring or sleep apnea. Several other sleep tests are available, such as a portable electrocardiogram, which records your heart’s electrical activity; and the portable electroencephalogram, which measures brainwaves during sleep. In addition to a sleep test, an in-lab study may be recommended for people who pose a safety risk if they fall asleep at work. This includes taxi, bus, and ride-share drivers, as well as pilots and police officers.