Sleep apnea diagnostics (ambulatory polysomnography)
Persistent fatigue after sleep, loud snoring, frequent nighttime awakenings, or episodes of interrupted breathing may indicate a sleep disorder that requires further evaluation. Ambulatory polysomnography is a comprehensive sleep study that monitors breathing, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, body movements, and other physiological parameters throughout the night. The results help diagnose obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep disorders, determine their severity, and guide the most appropriate treatment plan.
When should you consider sleep apnea diagnostics?
- loud or persistent snoring, especially if it is accompanied by pauses in breathing
- episodes of stopped breathing during sleep, waking up gasping for air, or a sensation of choking
- excessive daytime sleepiness, persistent fatigue after sleep, or difficulty concentrating
- frequent nighttime awakenings, restless sleep, night sweats, or morning headaches
- overweight or obesity, high blood pressure, or other risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea
- sleeping with an open mouth, or noticeable pauses in breathing during sleep
- enlarged adenoids or tonsils in a child that may interfere with normal breathing during sleep
- restless sleep in a child, frequent awakenings, daytime sleepiness, hyperactivity, or difficulty concentrating
FAQ
How is ambulatory polysomnography performed?
Ambulatory polysomnography is performed without hospitalization and does not require an overnight stay in a medical facility. Before the study, the doctor explains the procedure, after which small sensors are placed on the patient's body to record physiological parameters during sleep.
Throughout the night, the equipment continuously monitors breathing, blood oxygen saturation, heart rate, body position, body movements, and other parameters required for a comprehensive sleep assessment. The recording is performed automatically while the patient sleeps.
After the study is completed, the recorded data are analyzed by the doctor. The report includes whether episodes of sleep apnea were detected, their frequency, duration, severity, and other findings that are important for establishing a diagnosis.
Based on the results, the doctor provides recommendations for further evaluation, treatment, or referral to the appropriate specialist if needed.
Can I undergo ambulatory polysomnography without a sleep specialist consultation?
If you already have a referral from your doctor, the study can be performed without a prior consultation with a sleep specialist. However, a consultation helps determine the most appropriate diagnostic approach, interpret the results correctly, and develop an effective treatment plan. After the study, the sleep specialist will explain the findings, confirm the diagnosis if necessary, and recommend the next steps.
Will I be able to sleep with the sensors attached?
Yes. The sensors are lightweight and designed to minimize discomfort, allowing you to change your sleeping position naturally throughout the night. Even if your sleep is slightly different from usual, the recorded data are sufficient to assess breathing patterns, oxygen saturation, and other parameters required for diagnosing sleep apnea.
How can I book an ambulatory polysomnography study?
You can schedule an ambulatory polysomnography study by calling +380 97 312 92 91, using the online appointment form on the Doctor Sam website, or by visiting our medical center at 1 Kiltseva Road, Respublika Park Shopping Mall, Kyiv.
If you have not yet consulted a sleep specialist, our administrator will help you schedule an appointment with a somnologist first. The doctor will assess your symptoms, determine whether ambulatory polysomnography is the most appropriate diagnostic test for you, and, after the study, explain the results and recommend the next steps in your treatment.
