Trusted testing that is not a source of fear: An intro to the at-home sleep study
The stressors of daily life and our ever-present blue screens have been blamed for the “epidemic” of insomnia or chronic sleeplessness. However, our teams at No Fear Dentistry in Madison and Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, know that for at least three out of every ten of us, the source of insomnia is actually secondary to potentially dangerous medical problems. We also believe that the “answer” to these problems should not cause any more unnecessary stress or hardship. For this reason, we are proud to offer trusted, convenient diagnostics from the comfort of your home.
The at-home sleep study difference
Sleep studies are generally used to gain insights into the quality of sleep and breathing when at rest. It can be used to rule out or to better understand potential underlying problems, such as persistent, disruptive, and very loud snoring and sleep and breathing disorders (like obstructive sleep apnea).
Traditionally, options for trusted, quality testing or evaluation may have been limited. A sleep study might be conducted at a medical facility. Of course, these simulated and unfamiliar conditions, surroundings, and environments can also be sources of anxiety or stress. Today, many of our patients with suspected sleep-disordered breathing can benefit from stress-free testing options. The sleep studies we may recommend are based on the same fundamental principles as those conventionally conducted at labs or other offsite locations. However, these evaluations can be performed at home.
Such options are much easier and more accessible for our patients who struggle to achieve and maintain sustained, rejuvenated sleep. They primarily involve the use of special sensors, applications, and technologies for monitoring and recording indicators of sleep health. These indicators may include:
- Blood oxygen levels
- Airflow
- Effort required to breathe
From there, this information is analyzed to determine the best recommendations for treatment or interventions to address the underlying problem, whether it is primary snoring, secondary snoring (caused by sleep apnea), or something else entirely. Depending on what we find, oral appliance therapy with a mandibular repositioning device may be in your future. For a healthier tomorrow, contact us at No Fear Dentistry today. Our two offices in Madison and Sun Prairie, WI, can be reached at (608) 836-5700 or (608) 837-4880, respectively.
