What Are My Options for Sleep Testing

Original article by Monroe ENT Associates · September 5, 2025

Editorially revised October 2, 2026.

This article focuses on sleep-testing options for adults. The right sleep test depends on your symptoms, medical history and the question your clinician is trying to answer. An in-lab sleep study and a home sleep apnea test collect different kinds of information, so they are not interchangeable. AASM Sleep Education: Sleep Study and Home Sleep Apnea Test

In-lab sleep study

An overnight sleep study, also called polysomnography, records brain waves, heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels and movements while a sleep technologist monitors the test. It can help evaluate sleep-related breathing disorders and certain other sleep problems. AASM: What a Sleep Study Records

Your clinician may prefer in-lab testing when a more complete evaluation is needed, another sleep disorder is suspected or medical conditions make home testing less appropriate. AASM: Diagnostic Testing Guideline

Home sleep apnea test

A home sleep apnea test collects information about breathing during sleep using equipment worn at home. The sensors vary by device. Home testing may be appropriate for selected adults who are likely to have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and do not have complicating conditions. AASM: Home Sleep Apnea Test

A home test does not provide the same information as a full sleep study and is not a general test for every sleep disorder. Certain heart, lung or neuromuscular conditions, chronic opioid use, a history of stroke or severe insomnia may make in-lab testing more appropriate. Your clinician should determine which test fits your situation. AASM: Choosing Between Home Testing and Polysomnography

A negative, inconclusive or technically inadequate home test does not reliably rule out sleep apnea. AASM guidance recommends an in-lab sleep study in this situation rather than assuming the evaluation is complete. AASM: Follow-Up After Home Testing

Other testing arrangements

In some cases, an in-lab night can include diagnostic testing followed by testing to help determine appropriate CPAP settings. This is called a split-night study and is used only when the clinical and testing criteria are met. AASM: Split-Night Testing

If your symptoms suggest a different sleep problem, ask whether another specialized test or a sleep-specialist evaluation is needed. This article is an overview, not a list of tests offered directly by our office.

Questions to ask before testing

What is this test intended to evaluate, and why is it appropriate for me?
What instructions should I follow about sleep schedule, caffeine, alcohol and medicines?
How do I use or return the equipment, and whom should I call with problems?
How will I receive my results, and what happens if the test is unclear?
What coverage, authorization or out-of-pocket questions should I check before the test?

Follow the testing team’s instructions and discuss your medicines before testing. Do not stop or change a prescribed medicine on your own. AASM: Preparing for Home Testing

Call Monroe ENT Associates at (734) 243-5020 or use the patient portal to arrange a nonurgent evaluation. For coverage questions, see Insurance & Coverage.

References and further reading

This article provides general education and does not replace individualized medical advice. For emergencies, call 911.