Taking a sleep test: the first step toward restorative sleep

Do you regularly toss and turn in bed at night? Whatever it is that’s keeping you from getting the sleep you need at night, the impact of some of poor sleep on your health and wellbeing cannot be overstated. 

Whether it is general sleeplessness, insomnia, snoring or sleep apnea, having a sleep issue or disorder can significantly impact your overall well-being and energy levels, not to mention your physical and mental health. 

If that sounds like you, then diagnosing and treating them effectively should be a priority. One vital tool used to monitor how you sleep and identifying underlying sleep issues is the sleep test or sleep study. In this blog, we’ll look at the different types of sleep tests available and how you can go about accessing them.

Signs you need a sleep test

Signs you need a sleep test

Poor sleep quality, an overwhelming sense of daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, snoring, or interrupted breathing during sleep, are all warning signs that indicate potential sleep-related issues. 

While it may feel normal or trivial to you, neglecting these symptoms can have far-reaching consequences on your health and lifestyle. To gain clarity and ensure that these issues are not being caused by a sleep disorder, taking a sleep test is essential.

What can a sleep test tell me?

A sleep test, namely a polysomnography, is the most comprehensive method to assess your sleep health. Typically performed in a sleep clinic or hospital, it involves attaching electrodes and sensors to your body to monitor various aspects of your sleep, including brain wave activity, oxygen levels, heart rate, breathing patterns, eye movements and leg movements.

In addition to an in-lab polysomnography or sleep test, there are also a range of home sleep tests available that offer enhanced convenience, comfort and ease of setup. As their name suggests, these tests can be set up and taken independently at home.

For all types of sleep tests, a sleep physician will follow up with the collected data to diagnose and assess the severity of sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Based on the test results, appropriate treatment recommendations will then be made.

Different ways to get a sleep test

Getting the right sleep test for you requires consulting your GP or doctor. In some cases, Medicare covers the cost of some diagnostic sleep tests, albeit with a possible gap payment.

Here's how you can get started:

1. Before getting a sleep test, you will need to book an appointment with your GP and discuss your sleep history. To gather helpful insights and sleep data, we recommend completing our online sleep assessment. These tools can provide useful information to assist your doctor in assessing your symptoms to determine if a sleep test is needed.

2. When you see your doctor, ask them about your eligibility for a bulk-billed Medicare-rebated sleep test. If eligible, you will likely be given a choice of two sleep tests:

• Medicare-rebated laboratory sleep test: If you prefer a comprehensive evaluation conducted in a professional sleep clinic or hospital, this option is your best choice. Typically known as a polysomnography or PSG, you will be evaluated by expert sleep health physicians.
• Medicare-rebated home sleep test: If the notion of undergoing a sleep test in the comfort and convenience of your own home appeals to you, a Medicare-rebated home sleep test could be the better solution. With user-friendly equipment provided, you can enjoy the familiarity of your sleep environment while collecting valuable data.

3. The next step is to complete your chosen test. Whichever option you choose, a sleep physician or healthcare professional will guide you through each step of your chosen sleep test. Whether you undergo the test at a specialised sleep clinic or within the walls of your abode, they will ensure you are equipped with the necessary instructions to obtain accurate results.

Once you have completed your selected sleep study, they will then interpret the results and provide you with a detailed report with treatment recommendations. During your follow-up appointment, the findings of your sleep study will be reviewed with you alongside a personalised treatment plan.

Taking the first step

Choosing the right sleep test is crucial for accurately diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. Medicare-rebated options provide an accessible and affordable way to access sleep tests should you be at risk of having a sleep disorder. 

No matter if you opt for a home sleep test, a laboratory sleep test, our team of sleep coach can support you at every step.

Don't hesitate to take the first step by booking an appointment with us and discussing your sleep concerns. Our team will help answer your questions, so you can make an informed decision about how to go about improving your sleep health and getting a better night's sleep.

*ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL
This product is unsuitable if you have significant comorbidities including but not limited to cardiorespiratory disease, neuromuscular disease, and morbid obesity.

*ResMed Sleep Coaches are sales and customer service representatives who have received training in sleep health. They can give general information about sleep health, sleep disorders and products that may help improve your sleep. They are not qualified healthcare professionals and cannot provide medical advice. We recommend you continue to consult your GP.