Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It can lead to disrupted sleep, daytime fatigue,and potential health complications.
Fortunately, advancements in sleep medicine have made it easier than ever to diagnose and manage sleep apnea. Below, I share my experience with the at home sleep apnea test offered by Lofta. Find out how this convenient test works, what data it collects and how you can take the first step toward better sleep and overall health.
The Cost of the At Home Sleep Apnea Test:
Traditional in-lab sleep studies can be expensive and require an overnight stay at a sleep center. However, Lofta’s at-home sleep apnea test is a more affordable option, with prices typically ranging from $199 to $299.
This cost-effective solution allows you to receive professional sleep evaluation and personalized recommendations without breaking the bank. Considering how convenient the test was, and the comprehensive information I learned about my sleep (including getting several questions by my sleep coach), I think this at-home test is well worth it.
Note: I had already tried less expensive snore treatment options, which helped but not completely resolved my snoring issues. You may want to try these lower-cost methods (ie anti-snore pillows, nose vents for snoring, tongue exercises or mini snoring mouthpiece) first to see if they remedy your issues before ordering a sleep test.
Equipment Used and Data Collection:
Lofta’s at-home sleep apnea test comes with a compact, user-friendly device that monitors your sleep patterns and respiratory activity. The test kit includes a small device with sensors that you wear on your finger, a chest sensor to monitor breathing effort and a wrist strap to measure pulse rate.
The data collected by these sensors includes:
1. Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI): This measures the number of apneas (complete cessation of breathing) and hypopneas (partial blockage of the airway) per hour of sleep. A higher AHI indicates more severe sleep apnea.
2. Oxygen Saturation Levels: The test records your blood oxygen levels, which can help identify breathing disturbances and oxygen desaturation during sleep.
3. Sleep Efficiency: This metric tracks the percentage of time spent asleep compared to the total time spent in bed.
The Apnea Sleep Test Procedure: What to Expect:
The at-home sleep apnea test with Lofta is simple and user-friendly. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
- Ordering the Test Kit:
Visit the Lofta website to order your at-home sleep apnea test kit. The kit will be delivered to your doorstep, complete with easy-to-follow instructions. - Setting Up the Test:
On the night of the test, wear the provided sensors as directed. The finger sensor will measure your heart rate and blood oxygen levels, while the wrist strap will monitor your pulse rate. - Night of Sleep:
Go to bed as you normally would, and sleep through the night with the sensors in place. In my person experience, the equipment felt comfortable, and the finger sensor is snug so it won’t slip off. - Returning the Kit:
Once you wake up, click “end recording” on your smartphone, and the collected sleep data is automatically sent back to Lofta. Then, carefully remove the sensors and place them back in the provided package.
How to Get a CPAP Machine (If Needed):
If the at-home sleep apnea test confirms that you have sleep apnea, the next step is to explore treatment options.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat sleep apnea at home without a surgical procedure. Lofta provides a streamlined process to obtain a CPAP machine if needed.
- Consultation with a Sleep Coach:
A sleep coach from Lofta will review your test results and discuss your treatment options, including CPAP therapy. - Selecting the Right CPAP Machine:
Lofta offers a range of top-quality CPAP machines from leading brands. Your sleep coach will guide you in choosing the best device to suit your needs. - Convenient Delivery and Setup:
Once you’ve selected your CPAP machine, it will be shipped directly to your home. Then your coach can help instruct you on setting it for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
FAQ About At-Home Sleep Testing:
Q: Can I use Lofta’s at-home sleep apnea test if I suspect I have sleep apnea?
A: Yes, Lofta’s at-home sleep test is designed for individuals who suspect they may have sleep apnea and want to get a professional evaluation from the comfort of their own home.
Q: What happens after the test?
A: After completing the test, I returned the kit to Lofta for analysis. A sleep coach then looked over my results and discussed personalized recommendations based on the information pulled from my sleep test.
Q: How long does it take to get the results of your sleep test?
A: Once Lofta received my sleep data, it only took a few business days to process and analyze it. My sleep coach then scheduled a consultation to discuss the results with me.
Q: Does insurance pay for the home sleep test?
A: Lofta does not directly bill insurance for the at-home sleep apnea test. However, they can provide you with an itemized receipt that you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement.
Summary:
Lofta’s at-home sleep apnea test provides a convenient and cost-effective way to find out how “healthy” your sleep is and diagnose sleep apnea. With easy-to-use equipment and comprehensive data collection, you can quickly find out a lot about your sleep patterns.
If the results indicate sleep apnea, Lofta’s sleep coaches will guide you through the process of obtaining a CPAP machine for effective treatment.