Portable Sleep Monitor
What is a Portable Sleep Monitor?
A portable monitoring device, also known as a Level 3 Sleep Study, can be used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This method is preferred by many if they do not have severe symptoms and can self-monitor the concern at their home. If there is a high likelihood of moderate to severe sleep apnea, it is usually best to undergo a full sleep study in a lab to ensure the most accurate results as portable monitors tend to underestimate the severity of OSA compared to an in-laboratory sleep test.
Level 3 Sleep Studies are becoming an increasingly useful and accessible way to confirm OSA by measuring oxygen saturation, heart rate, air flow and effort while also recording details about snoring and position. These devices are great as they are small, light, easy-to-use and overall very portable.
If your doctor has referred you for this test, you will meet with a technician who will set you up with a small machine to take home to use for one night, and the technician will show you how to set up the machine. It is very important that you return the machine as directed the next day, so that your results can be downloaded quickly and interpreted for your doctor. This will get you fast results so that you can get your good night's rest back and enjoy both your days and your nights again!