Scans & Tests · Sleep apnoea

Scans and tests for snoring and sleep apnoea

This is information about the tests that may be used to assess snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (spelled sleep apnea in the US), not a recommendation. Your clinician decides which, if any, you need. Enter your postcode to see the NHS wait near you.

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Examination and questionnaire first

Symptoms and an Epworth sleepiness score guide what is needed.

Home sleep study

The first-line test, and what NICE recommends: home respiratory polygraphy, a monitor you use overnight at home. It is a test, not a scan.

A home sleep study (respiratory polygraphy) records your breathing, oxygen levels and heart rate overnight using a small monitor you wear at home. It is a test rather than an imaging scan.

How long: Worn overnight, one night at home; you return the device the next day.

Good for: Confirming obstructive sleep apnoea and how severe it is. It is the usual first-line test.

Privately: Private home sleep tests are available for a fee.

In-lab sleep study (polysomnography)

A full overnight study in a sleep lab, used when the home test is not enough. It is a test, not a scan.

Polysomnography is a full overnight sleep study in a sleep unit, recording brain activity, breathing, oxygen, heart rate and movement. It is a test rather than an imaging scan.

How long: One night in a sleep unit, with sensors fitted before you sleep.

Good for: A detailed picture when a home test is inconclusive or a more complex sleep problem is suspected.

Sources: NICE (NG202), NHS. [1] (opens in new tab) [2] (opens in new tab)

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Wait or Pay is independent and is not the NHS. NHS waits are from DM01 diagnostics data. Nothing here is medical advice; your clinician decides which scan, if any, you need.

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