Sleep assessment is a structured mapping of sleep-related problems, with the aim of uncovering whether you have breathing disorders during sleep, and what may be contributing to the problem.

For many, this involves snoring and suspected obstructive sleep apnea (breathing stops during sleep), but the assessment may also be relevant in the case of other symptoms that affect sleep quality and daytime performance.

When can a sleep study be relevant?

A sleep study may be relevant if you experience one or more of these:

• Loud snoring, especially if it is increasing.
• Breathing breaks observed by partner or family.
• Restless sleep, awakenings with a feeling of suffocation or heavy breathing.
• Pronounced daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating or reduced performance.
• Morning headache, dry mouth or sore throat when you wake up.
• Sleep problems combined with high blood pressure, obesity or known cardiovascular disease.

What can you investigate with our ENT specialists?

In the case of sleep disorders, there are often several factors working together. An ENT professional assessment provides a clear basis for decisions on further measures.

• Conditions in the nose that can cause impaired air passage (for example, crooked nasal septum, mucosal swelling or polyps).
• Conditions in the throat and palate that can narrow the airway (such as large tonsils).
• Snoring and suspected obstructive sleep apnea.
• Assessment of anatomical conditions that may affect treatment choices.

This is how we conduct a sleep assessment

The sleep assessment is set up as a clear patient journey, where we combine clinical examination with relevant sleep measurement.

• Mapping of symptoms, sleep patterns and risk factors.
• ENT examination of the nose, throat and airways.
• If necessary, endoscopic examination of the nose and throat.
• Sleep recording at home (sleep measurement) when there is an indication for it.
• Interpretation of findings and review of results.
• Plan for further treatment, control or possible referral if needed.

Sleep tracking at home

Sleep recording (often called respiratory polyigraphy) is a measurement performed at home, usually overnight. It provides information about breathing patterns and oxygen levels during sleep, and is a key tool when sleep apnea is suspected.

We often measure this:

• Airflow through nose and mouth.
• Oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate.
• Breathing movements from the chest and abdomen.
• Sleeping position and any cord signals, depending on measuring equipment.

Practical implementation

• You get equipment and practical guidance before the measurement.
• You carry out the measurement at home as instructed.
• You return the equipment and the results are interpreted by the therapist.

Interpretation of the results

The results are assessed in the context of symptoms and clinical findings. In the case of sleep apnoea, the frequency of breathing stops and the drop in oxygen saturation are among the factors considered. This is used to assess severity and which measures are most appropriate.

What can a sleep study reveal?

A sleep study can help to clarify:

• Whether you have obstructive sleep apnea, and any degree of severity.
• Whether breathing stops mainly occur in certain sleeping positions.
• Whether nasal congestion or other ENT conditions are likely to exacerbate the symptoms.
• Whether there is a need for further assessment by another specialist health service.

What can a sleep study reveal?

In the case of obstructive sleep apnea, repeated pauses in breathing can lead to fragmented sleep and reduced sleep quality, which in turn can lead to daytime fatigue. Untreated sleep apnea may also be associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. For some, pronounced sleepiness can affect safety in traffic and work situations.

Possible measures after investigation

Interventions are selected based on cause, severity and your needs. The goal is to establish a realistic and evidence-based plan for better sleep and safer breathing.

• Lifestyle measures and sleep hygiene, including advice on sleeping position where relevant.
• Treatment of nasal congestion when it affects air passage.
• Snoring splint or apnea splint (mandible advancing splint) in collaboration with a dentist, when suitable.
• CPAP treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea, often in collaboration with a sleep medicine unit.
• Surgical measures can be considered in selected cases when anatomical conditions are clearly contributing.

Possible disadvantages and risks

Sleep assessment and sleep recording are usually gentle and without serious risk, but some may experience:

• Discomfort with sensor equipment or slightly reduced sleep the night of the measurement.
• Skin irritation from tape or sensors.
• Need for further investigation if the measurement does not provide sufficient data quality.

For treatment involving splinting, CPAP or surgery, we will always provide information about the expected effect, possible side effects and relevant alternatives before starting.

Who can help you?

One of our ear, nose and throat specialists will be able to perform a satisfactory examination in order to make the correct diagnosis and start appropriate treatment. We have standardized procedures as well as access to modern equipment to ensure a thorough investigation.

Danger signals

You should contact us for an assessment if you have marked daytime sleepiness, fall asleep involuntarily or experience frequent pauses in breathing during sleep. In the event of acute wheezing, chest pain or severe general malaise, you should contact the emergency room or emergency medical services.

Contact us for an appointment

You can book an appointment without a referral. Get in touch by phone 63 79 66 33 or book an appointment via Book time.

Our clinics are located in Lysaker (Oslo), Lillestrøm (Romerike), Bergen and Trondheim.