Are you experiencing sleep apnea symptoms such as fatigue and irritability throughout the day? While most people think the only way to test for sleep apnea is to go to a sleep facility, our Cedar City, UT, dentist, Dr. Sage White offers take-home sleep apnea tests for a convenient and comfortable diagnosis experience. It’s important to know if you’re suffering from sleep apnea sooner than later, so that Dr. White can recommend the proper treatment plan.
Dr. White is improving the sleep quality of patients in Enoch, Hamiltons Fort, Kanarraville, Summit, and the surrounding Utah area. Read our guide below to learn how you can benefit from receiving personalized and quality care from our sleep dentist.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. The most common type of sleep apnea is called obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open. This can cause symptoms including snoring and poor blood circulation, putting you at risk of more serious issues down the line if not immediately treated.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
The most accurate way to diagnose sleep apnea is to undergo a sleep study. While most sleep dentists will require you to stay at a sleep center overnight, this can be an uncomfortable experience. That’s why Dr. White offers take-home tests that can be done in the comfort of your bed. You’ll be provided with a portable testing kit, which is an easy-to-use device that will monitor and track your sleep patterns to get an accurate sleep apnea diagnosis.
In addition to being more comfortable, take-home tests are also more affordable. While staying the night in a medical center can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, our take-home test is only $195, which can also be covered by your insurance provider.
Preparing for a Sleep Apnea Test
To prepare for an at-home sleep test, Dr. White recommends following these helpful tips to ensure an effective diagnosis:
- Avoid napping the day of your test
- Steer clear of caffeine after noon
- Eat a full, well-balanced dinner
- Eliminate distractions in the bedroom
- Wind down and relax before going to sleep
Effective Sleep Apnea Treatments
Once you’ve been properly diagnosed, Dr. White will recommend a treatment plan to relieve your sleep apnea symptoms and get your sleep schedule back on track. Our Cedar City office offers a variety of sleep apnea treatments, including:
- CPAP Therapy
- Oral appliance
- Lifestyle changes
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a sleep test?
How often you should get a sleep test depends on your individual condition and treatment plan. For example, if you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend a follow-up sleep test to see how well your treatment is working. In some cases, you may only need a sleep test once in your lifetime, while in others, you may need to be retested every few years.
How long does it take to get the results of a sleep test?
The time it takes to get the results of a sleep test can vary depending on the lab and the type of sleep test performed. In some cases, the results may be available within a few days, while in others, it may take several weeks to receive the results. Your dentist will be able to give you an estimate of when you can expect the results.
Is a sleep test the only way to diagnose sleep disorders?
A sleep test is the most common and accurate way to diagnose sleep disorders, but it is not the only method. Your dentist may also use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and patient symptoms to make a diagnosis. Your dentist may also use questionnaires and sleep diaries to gather information about your sleep habits and symptoms.
Making Diagnosis Easier & More Accessible for Patients
Don’t let sleep apnea control your life any longer. Visit our Cedar City office for a convenient take-home sleep apnea test today and get the answers you need to start feeling refreshed and energized again. Schedule a consultation with Dr. White by giving us a call at (435) 267-0486 or fill out an online form.