Sleep Apnoea and Home Sleep Studies

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) occurs when the upper airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, briefly interrupting breathing. This can disturb sleep quality, lower oxygen levels and increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and daytime sleepiness. Untreated OSA can also affect concentration, mood and driving safety.

• Loud snoring
• Witnessed pauses in breathing during sleep
• Waking unrefreshed despite a full night in bed
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches or dry mouth
• Difficulty concentrating or low mood
• Frequent night-time urination

• Loud snoring with witnessed apnoeas
• Excessive daytime sleepiness affecting work or driving
• High blood pressure that is hard to control
• Atrial fibrillation, heart failure or stroke
• Pre-operative assessment for major surgery
• Failed previous CPAP therapy or device intolerance

• Specialist sleep medicine consultation (in person or virtual)
• Home sleep study using WatchPAT technology, posted to your home
• Specialist scoring and interpretation by a sleep physician
• In-laboratory sleep study where clinically required
• CPAP set-up, titration and follow-up care
• Consideration of mandibular advancement splints and positional therapy

Treatment is tailored to the severity of sleep apnoea and individual factors. Options include CPAP therapy, mandibular advancement splints, positional therapy, weight management and treatment of related conditions. Ongoing review ensures therapy remains effective and well tolerated.

• Maintain a regular sleep routine
• Aim for a healthy weight where appropriate
• Limit alcohol, particularly in the evening
• Sleep on your side if positional symptoms are predominant
• Use your CPAP every night, including naps
• Attend regular follow-up to optimise therapy
• Tell your doctor about new daytime sleepiness or driving concerns