How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

The spouses of sleep apnea patients are usually the first one who suspect. Heavy snoring, apparent struggle to breathe, frequent choking and day time sleepiness are the most common complaints. Coworkers or friends of the sleep apnea victim may notice the individual falls asleep at inappropriate times (such as while driving a car, working, or talking). The patient is often the last one to know. Frequently, they may not believe it when told.

In addition to the primary care physician, pulmonologists, otolaryngologist (ENT surgeon), neurologists, or other physicians with specialty training in sleep disorders may be involved in making the diagnosis and initiating treatment.

Polysomnography is the test commonly performed for diagnosis. The test records a variety of body functions during sleep:


Electroencephalography (electrical activity of the brain)

Eye movement

Muscle activity

Heart rate

Respiratory effort

Air flow

Blood oxygen levels

These tests are used both to diagnose sleep apnea and to determine its severity. Diagnostic tests are normally performed in a sleep center. However, some new technology may allow some sleep studies to be conducted in the patient's home.