Key takeaways
- Sleep apnoea is diagnosed by a doctor or sleep physician after reviewing your sleep study results, symptoms and history.
- There are two testing options: an overnight in-lab sleep study, or a home sleep test used as a screening step.
- CPAP is a common treatment used for sleep apnoea, not a way to test for the condition.
- You can't reliably diagnose sleep apnoea yourself, so speak with your Blooms Pharmacist or GP about next steps.
Sleep apnoea (also known as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea or OSA) causes breathing to stop and start during sleep. In terms of how to test for sleep apnoea, it’s conducted either overnight in a sleep clinic or at home as part of a screening step. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms, how sleep apnoea is diagnosed, and CPAP treatment that follows diagnosis.
What is sleep apnoea, and why get tested?
Obstructive sleep apnoea refers to repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, this can happen when your throat muscles relax too much during sleep, disrupting your breathing, oxygen levels, and sleep quality, and often leaving you feeling tired and unrefreshed. Common signs include loud snoring, gasping, and daytime tiredness1, which may be associated with other health issues when left untreated. Testing helps understand what’s going on, and if a sleep apnoea diagnosis follows, a treatment plan can be put in place to support sleep health.
What is a sleep test?
A sleep test is a recording of activity like breathing, blood oxygen levels, and heart rate during sleep2. These studies (called polysomnograms) happen overnight to give a specialist visibility over your sleeping state. The data collection can track the activity of various areas of the body, including the brain system, to create a comprehensive picture of your sleep.
You can take the Free Online Sleep Quiz to see if a sleep test might be for you.
How is sleep apnoea diagnosed?
Sleep apnoea is diagnosed by doctors or sleep physicians. They make the diagnosis after reviewing your sleep study results, symptoms, and history. The usual pathway begins with screening questions that typically follow the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, followed by a sleep study. This is then reviewed by your specialist.
Your testing options: in-lab sleep study vs home sleep test
There are two sleep testing options available, depending on your needs and preferences.
| Sleep study type | Considerations and what to expect |
|---|---|
| In-lab sleep study |
|
| Home sleep test |
|
The in-lab (overnight) sleep study
Clinic-based studies are very common. They can be recommended by doctors when complex symptoms or other health conditions are present, or when other sleep disorders are suspected.
During an in-lab sleep study, different sensors will track activity such as brain waves, muscle movement, breathing, and heart activity. The process usually only takes one night or day depending on your sleep schedule. Afterwards, medical professionals will review your data.
The at-home sleep apnoea test
An at-home sleep apnoea test may be preferable for those who find it easier to sleep in a familiar environment. Blooms’ at-home Sleep Apnoea Test can be scheduled quickly as there is no GP referral needed, and the device doesn’t require wires or chest bands, so there’s less disruption. Results are reviewed by an external sleep specialist who will confirm if you are at risk of sleep apnoea and what steps are needed next. To learn more, you can read our guide on what to expect from an at-home sleep apnoea test.
Where CPAP fits: a treatment pathway, not a test
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It is a common treatment used for sleep apnoea, and not a way to test for the condition3. CPAP involves the use of a machine during sleep, helping to manage OSA symptoms via a nose or face mask. If CPAP is recommended by your doctor, your local Blooms Pharmacist can support you with CPAP products and setup.
What happens after your test?
After a clinic-based or at-home sleep apnoea test, the results are sent to a sleep specialist. They review and discuss the data with a doctor, who may then make recommendations such as lifestyle changes or CPAP therapy. A sleep apnoea diagnosis is the beginning of a manageable pathway to improved sleep. To learn more about next steps after diagnosis, read our guide to managing sleep apnoea at home.
Frequently asked questions
Can I test myself for sleep apnoea at home?
Yes. Home sleep tests can be used as a screening test and are available through participating Blooms The Chemist pharmacies. It’s important to note that while a sleep physician reviews the results, only a doctor can diagnose sleep apnoea and recommend appropriate treatment.
Do I need a referral to get a sleep test in Australia?
It depends on the pathway you choose, so check what applies to your situation. Pharmacy-arranged home sleep tests can often be started without a GP referral, while some clinic-based studies and rebate-related arrangements may require a doctor’s involvement.
Is a home sleep test as accurate as an in-lab study?
Both sleep tests have a role in assessing sleep apnoea. In-lab sleep studies monitor a wider range of signals, while home tests can be suitable in some cases. A doctor or sleep physician can advise which option best suits you4.
How do I know if I have sleep apnoea without a test?
You can’t reliably diagnose sleep apnoea yourself. Symptoms such as loud snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, and daytime tiredness may be warning signs. A screening quiz can help, but a sleep study is needed for proper assessment5.
Talk to your local Blooms Pharmacist
If you’re concerned about sleep apnoea, you can speak with your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist about screening options, home sleep testing, and CPAP support. Your pharmacist can help guide next steps, and you can also talk to your GP about diagnosis and treatment. Use the Blooms Store Finder to locate your nearest store or visit the Sleep Apnoea Hub for more information. Remember to always consult your Pharmacist or doctor for advice about diagnosis and treatment.