What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea causes interruptions in breathing while you sleep, leading to moments where you stop breathing multiple times a night. These pauses reduce oxygen flow to the brain and body. At Texas ENT Specialists in Houston, we offer comprehensive sleep apnea testing to diagnose and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment options.

Your Sleep Apnea Test at Texas ENT Specialists in Houston

Sleep Study

Texas ENT Specialists in Houston provides several types of sleep apnea testing. One option is a polysomnogram, or sleep study, which records various physical activities while you sleep. During this test, electrodes may be placed on your face and scalp to monitor brain and muscle activity, helping diagnose sleep apnea and other sleep disorders.

WatchPAT one

We also offer the WatchPAT ONE test, which uses a chest sensor and wrist device that connects to an app on your phone. This home-based test monitors your sleep and provides data for your provider to analyze, determining whether you have sleep apnea or another sleep issue.

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What can a Sleep Apnea Test Diagnose?

In addition to diagnosing sleep apnea, testing can reveal other sleep disorders. Sleep apnea testing may be necessary if you snore, as snoring could indicate an underlying sleep condition.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Testing

Testing for sleep apnea is critical for diagnosing the condition, as untreated sleep apnea is linked to daytime fatigue, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and other health risks. Sleep apnea testing identifies whether you have the condition so you can be advised of an appropriate treatment. You (and your partner) will benefit by enjoying more restful sleep.

Who is a Candidate for Sleep Apnea Testing?

If you experience sleep disturbances, loud snoring, or signs of sleep apnea, you may be a candidate for testing. During your appointment, our specialists will discuss your sleep habits and any symptoms you’re experiencing to determine if a sleep test is necessary.

What Is the Sleep Apnea Test Procedure?

Before your test, our team will ensure it’s the right step for you and provide all necessary pre-test instructions. The test can be done in our office or home, depending on the method used. For in-office tests, you will sleep in a testing room, and electrodes will be applied to monitor your sleep. When the test is over, our specialists will review your results, and we’ll inform you of the findings.

WatchPAT ONE Test

For the WatchPAT ONE test, follow these steps:

  • Turn off other transmitting devices like smartwatches or headphones to avoid interference.
  • Do not use a CPAP or APAP machine during the test.
  • Open the WatchPAT ONE app on your phone and follow the instructions to begin.
  • At the end of the test, press “END RECORDING” in the app and wait for the “Thank You” notification, which confirms the test is complete and sent to your doctor.

After the Test: Your Customized Treatment Plan

Once the test results are analyzed, our sleep apnea specialists will advise you of your options to achieve healthier, more restorative sleep:

  • CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): A machine that delivers continuous airflow through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep, helping reduce snoring and improve breathing.
  • Inspire Procedure: A surgically implanted device that stimulates the nerve controlling the tongue to keep the airway clear during sleep, allowing natural breathing without needing a mask or hose.
  • Airlift Procedure: A minimally invasive surgery that repositions the hyoid bone to open the airway, reducing sleep apnea symptoms and allowing for easier breathing.
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Why Choose Texas ENT Specialists in Houston?

Texas ENT Specialists in Houston is Houston’s leading provider of ENT care, offering personalized treatment plans and advanced sleep apnea testing options. We have multiple convenient locations across the city; we make it easy to find a convenient office for sleep apnea testing. Our top-rated team of board-certified ear, nose, and throat specialists is committed to providing the highest quality of care and helping you achieve long-term relief from sleep apnea.

With 15 convenient locations across the Houston area, we’re never far away.

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