It gives a more accurate reflection of someone’s natural sleep behaviours and conditions, and present high rates of success. 

With roughly one in three adult Australians suffering from sleep disorders, it is no surprise that various sleep experts and institutions have begun to lobby the government to prioritise effective screening, diagnoses, and treatment of those who suffer from sleep deprivation.

Considering that a chronic lack of quality sleep can cause debilitating illnesses such as stress, fatigue, obesity, hypertension, heart disease and heart failure, diabetes and chronic headaches, it is hard to disregard the importance of creating awareness around sleep disorders.

Sleep Studies, officially known as polysomnograms, are the means by which medical professionals and specialists can monitor and measure the physiological activities that take place when we sleep. Sensors, much like those found on an electrocardiogram (ECG), are strategically placed on the skin of a patient to measure brain activity, breathing and blood oxygen levels, heartbeat, and movements of multiple body parts, including eyes, muscles and limbs.

By using this data, experts can assess the specific indicators which will determine whether someone has a sleep disorder or not.

Previously, patients would have had to travel to hospitals or sleep clinics that contained the necessary equipment and appropriately trained staff. However, those days are now a thing of the past. The good news is that in-home sleep studies are now being offered all across Australia.

Advanced portable diagnostic equipment and devices can be brought to a patient’s home, where the essential screening is conducted while the patient sleeps in the comfort of their bed. Apart from the benefit of not having to stay in a hospital at great expense, the data collected during in-home sleep studies is a more accurate reflection of someone’s natural sleep behaviours and conditions.

Once a specialist has interpreted the relevant data, medical practitioners will then be able to make an informed diagnosis and proceed with the appropriate treatment.

Research has shown that treatments for sleep disorders present high rates of success, which can bring invaluable relief to both patients and their loved ones. Within a few weeks, those undergoing treatments become more alert, enjoy increased energy levels, better focus, stable moods and overall wellbeing.

While many people have concerns about the high cost of medical screenings and treatments, there are affordable options to consider. The risk of incurring significant unplanned costs if a disorder is left untreated is to be weighed against the benefits and peace of mind a definitive result can bring.