Your Path to Restful Nights with Local Sleep Apnea Testing
Are you struggling with loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or restless nights? Understanding how a sleep study works can be your first step toward diagnosing and treating sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea. At the Center for Dental Sleep Health, our experienced sleep apnea dentist in Nashua, NH, Dr. Stephen Ura, provides comprehensive sleep apnea testing and treatment options for patients throughout the Greater Nashua area.
Contact our Nashua dental office at (603) 237-1124 to schedule your consultation or explore our advanced sleep apnea treatments. We proudly serve patients from Hudson, Merrimack, Milford, and surrounding New Hampshire communities.
What is a Sleep Study?
A sleep study is a comprehensive diagnostic test that healthcare professionals use to evaluate various sleep disorders. These studies monitor critical physiological functions, including brain waves, breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart activity, and muscle movements during sleep. Sleep studies represent the gold standard for diagnosing conditions such as:
- Obstructive sleep apnea – the most common form of sleep-disordered breathing
- Sleep apnea (all types)
- Insomnia and sleep quality issues
- Restless leg syndrome
- Narcolepsy and excessive daytime sleepiness
Sleep specialists and dentists trained in sleep medicine typically recommend sleep studies when patients report symptoms like loud snoring, breathing interruptions, daytime drowsiness, or irregular sleep patterns that affect their quality of life.
Why You Might Need a Sleep Study
Your doctor or sleep apnea dentist near you may recommend a sleep study for several important reasons:
- Sleep studies diagnose breathing disorders like obstructive sleep apnea by measuring breathing interruptions and oxygen levels.
- They also evaluate the effectiveness of treatments such as CPAP machines.
- Sleep studies also analyze brain activity to identify conditions like restless leg syndrome or narcolepsy.
- Early diagnosis through sleep testing can also reveal underlying health issues like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Are you experiencing symptoms like chronic snoring, a morning sore throat, or daytime fatigue? Contact our Nashua dental office at (603) 237-1124 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Ura, a trusted sleep apnea dentist in the area.
Types of Sleep Studies Available Near You
Polysomnogram (PSG)
Polysomnography represents the gold standard for sleep disorder diagnosis. This overnight sleep study provides a detailed assessment by monitoring brain waves, oxygen levels, heart activity, breathing patterns, muscle movements, body position, and throat/airway function during different sleep stages.
This comprehensive test can detect various sleep disorders and is conducted at a specialized sleep center or with portable home sleep apnea testing equipment.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
The MSLT measures how quickly you fall asleep during daytime hours, which helps healthcare professionals diagnose conditions like narcolepsy. During this test, patients take several short naps in a controlled environment while sleep specialists monitor sleep onset and stages. This test is particularly valuable for determining excessive daytime sleepiness severity.
Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT)
Home sleep apnea testing has become increasingly popular, offering patients the convenience of sleeping in their own bed while gathering diagnostic data. These FDA-approved devices monitor breathing, oxygen levels, and other key factors to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea. Most cases of suspected sleep apnea can be diagnosed using home sleep study equipment.
Actigraphy
Actigraphy involves wearing a wrist-worn device that tracks movements over one to two weeks. This non-invasive approach provides insights into sleep-wake cycles, sleep quality, and duration without requiring overnight facility stays.
Preparing for a Sleep Study in Nashua
To obtain the most accurate results from your sleep study, your healthcare team will recommend:
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and certain medications before the test
- Maintain your regular sleep schedule leading up to the study
- Arrive on time at the sleep center or prepare your home environment properly
- Wear comfortable sleepwear and bring personal items that help you sleep
- Remove hair products that might interfere with electrode placement
What to Expect During the Sleep Study Process
In-Lab Sleep Study Experience
Here’s what patients can expect during an overnight sleep study at a sleep center:
Setup Process (About 1 Hour):
- Trained technicians will attach electrodes to your scalp and face to monitor brain waves during sleep stages
- Additional sensors are placed on your chest, fingers, and legs to track breathing, heart activity, and muscle movements
- A small device may monitor air movement near your nose and mouth
- Video or audio recordings may correlate sleep behaviors with sensor readings
During the Night:
- Sleep as normally as possible while monitored by qualified technicians
- Staff may gently wake you if sensors become disconnected
- Most patients adjust to the equipment and can obtain adequate sleep for diagnosis
Home Sleep Apnea Test Process
For home sleep studies, patients receive portable equipment and detailed instructions for:
- Proper device placement and activation
- Creating an optimal sleep environment
- Troubleshooting common issues
- Returning equipment to the sleep center or healthcare facility
After Your Sleep Study: Understanding Results and Next Steps
A board-certified sleep medicine physician or qualified dentist like Dr. Ura will carefully analyze your sleep study data. The comprehensive report typically includes:
- Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) – measuring breathing interruptions per hour
- Oxygen saturation levels throughout the night
- Sleep stage analysis and sleep efficiency
- Heart rate patterns and any irregularities
- Movement and arousal data
You’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss results and explore appropriate treatment options, which may include oral appliances, CPAP therapy, lifestyle modifications, or other interventions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to an overnight sleep study near me?
Bring comfortable sleepwear, necessary medications, and personal comfort items like an eye mask, earplugs, or toiletries. Many sleep centers provide bedding, but you can bring your own pillow or blanket for added comfort.
How long does it take to get sleep study results in Nashua, NH?
Sleep study results typically take one to two weeks after completion. A sleep medicine physician carefully analyzes all collected data before issuing a comprehensive report. Some facilities may offer expedited results for an additional fee.
How do I find a qualified sleep apnea dentist near me?
Look for dentists with specialized training in dental sleep medicine. Dr. Ura has extensive experience treating sleep apnea patients and works closely with local sleep centers to provide comprehensive care.
Is sleep apnea testing covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover sleep studies when medically necessary. Our team can help verify your coverage and work with your insurance provider to ensure you receive the care you need.
Take Control of Your Sleep Health in Nashua, NH
Don’t let sleep disorders compromise your health and quality of life. If you’re struggling with snoring, daytime fatigue, or sleep apnea concerns, consider a professional sleep study. Dr. Ura and our dental team at the Center for Dental Sleep Health are dedicated to helping Nashua residents achieve better sleep. We provide comprehensive sleep apnea testing and effective oral appliance therapy.
Ready for a consultation? Contact our Nashua dental office near you at (603) 237-1124 or fill out our online contact form. We proudly serve patients from Hudson, Merrimack, and Milford. The Center for Dental Sleep Health is your trusted partner for sleep disorder diagnosis and treatment in New Hampshire.