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Published on: 10/24/2025

What is the gold standard test for diagnosing sleep apnea?

The gold standard test for diagnosing sleep apnea is polysomnography, which is typically conducted in a sleep laboratory.

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Explanation

Polysomnography is considered the gold standard for diagnosing sleep apnea. This test is usually done overnight in a sleep lab, where various body functions are monitored while you sleep.

What is Polysomnography?

  • Comprehensive Monitoring: It records brain waves, oxygen levels in your blood, heart rate, breathing, and eye and leg movements.
  • In-Lab Environment: Conducted in a controlled setting, ensuring accurate and detailed results.

Alternative Tests

While polysomnography is the most thorough, there are other tests like home sleep tests. These are more convenient but generally less comprehensive than in-lab tests. They may not capture all the data that polysomnography does, making them less accurate for some patients.

In summary, polysomnography provides a detailed and accurate diagnosis for sleep apnea, making it the preferred choice when precise results are needed.

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