How Does an At-Home Sleep Test Work? Get Important Details Here!

September 27, 2026

“Diagnosis: Sleep Apnea” written on clipboard

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common but serious breathing disorder that can prevent you from getting the restorative, rejuvenating rest that your body needs to be its healthiest. Before you can get effective treatment for it, you need an official diagnosis through “sleep testing near me.” While many sleep tests are performed in a lab, some patients are candidates for an at-home option! Just how does at-home sleep testing work? Continue reading to find out.

Get Started

An at-home sleep test must be prescribed by a qualified medical professional, such as your physician or a dentist who treats sleep apnea. Tell your care provider about your symptoms, which may include things like loud snoring, daytime exhaustion, frequent nighttime urination, and whether your partner has noticed that you sometimes stop breathing at night.

Based on what you tell them, your care team can determine if you are a good candidate for an at-home sleep test. Keep in mind that this type of test works best for OSA. If you show signs of other sleep disorders, you might need an in-lab sleep test.

The Test

The test itself is pretty simple! You will get sent home with the required monitoring equipment. Lots of companies make at-home sleep testing gear. Some look like a watch, while others use an oximeter that you clip onto a finger. A few might use a chest strap or nasal cannula, while others are a simple as a smart ring that you wear for a night.

Place the gear on your body as directed and then go to sleep. Try to stick to your usual routine and go to bed at your normal time. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals in the last few hours before you try to sleep.

As you sleep, the gear will monitor your oxygen levels and other important metrics. After you complete the test, you just return the equipment.

Your Results

A sleep physician will review the results of your sleep test and get in touch with you to let you know if you have OSA. If you do, you can start learning more about the condition and exploring your treatment options. Many people find that a custom oral appliance from a dentist is more convenient and comfortable than a CPAP machine, which is the most common way to address OSA.

An at-home sleep test is an easy and low-stress way to find out if you have OSA! Talk to your care team to learn more about the process and what to expect from it.

Meet the Practice

At GoTo Sleep Center, our team includes highly skilled sleep dentists, a medical doctor, and physician assistants. Together, we work to provide effective care for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea. We use the advanced SleepImage Ring for at-home sleep tests. If you have been struggling to feel well-rested lately, we are ready to offer guidance on your next steps! Contact our Tempe location at 623-299-8799.