Sleep apnea evaluation

About Sleep apnea evaluation

Evaluation for obstructive sleep apnea typically begins with a structured screen (STOP-BANG, Epworth Sleepiness Scale) followed by home sleep apnea testing or, in higher-risk or pediatric cases, in-laboratory polysomnography. Results report the apnea-hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation, and sleep architecture and guide therapy. First-line treatment for moderate-to-severe disease is positive airway pressure; alternatives include mandibular advancement devices, positional therapy, hypoglossal nerve stimulation, and surgical correction of anatomic obstruction. Weight loss and treatment of nasal disease are important adjuncts.