How to Prepare for a Sleep Apnea Test

If you or your doctor suspect you may have sleep apnea, the next step is likely a sleep study, a test that monitors your breathing, oxygen levels, and sleep quality overnight. Many Australians undergo this simple yet essential test each year to get answers about their poor sleep, loud snoring, or unexplained fatigue. Whether you're scheduled for an at-home sleep test or an in-lab sleep study (polysomnography), preparing properly can help ensure accurate results and a smoother experience.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to prepare for a sleep apnea test.

Types of Sleep Apnea Tests in Australia

First, it’s important to understand which type of sleep test you’ll be doing. In Australia, there are two main types:

Home Sleep Test (HSAT)

This is a portable test you take at home. You’ll be given equipment to wear overnight that records:

• Breathing patterns

• Oxygen levels

• Heart rate

• Airflow and effort

• Snoring and sleep position

It’s convenient, Medicare-funded in many cases, and suitable for people with a high likelihood of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

In-Lab Sleep Study (Polysomnography)

This is conducted overnight at a sleep clinic or hospital. It's more comprehensive and is usually recommended if:

• Other sleep disorders are suspected

• The home test was inconclusive

• There are coexisting medical conditions

Talk to Your Doctor or Sleep Technician

Before your test, speak with your GP, sleep specialist, or technician to clarify:

• The type of test you’ll be doing

• What equipment will be used

• Whether any of your medications need adjusting

• When and how to return your home test device, if applicable

If you’re doing a home test, you'll either collect the device from a clinic or have it delivered.

Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

The night before your test:

• Avoid alcohol, as it can relax your throat muscles and worsen breathing disruptions.

• Avoid caffeine, especially after midday. Caffeine can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and affect your sleep stages.

These substances can impact the results of your test, leading to inaccurate readings.

Stick to Your Usual Sleep Schedule

Try to go to bed and wake up at your normal times. The goal of a sleep apnea test is to monitor your natural sleep patterns. Significant changes in your routine can reduce the reliability of the data collected.

For example, don’t stay up later than usual or try to go to bed early “just for the test” — just keep it natural.

Follow Your Medication Plan (Unless Instructed Otherwise)

Unless your doctor tells you to stop, continue taking your usual medications, especially if they relate to:

• Blood pressure

• Asthma or breathing

• Anxiety or sleep

Some medications may influence your breathing patterns or brain activity. If you’re unsure whether to pause any of them, ask your doctor well in advance.

Shower Before the Test

Whether you’re doing a home or lab test, take a shower before bed to clean your skin and scalp. This helps the sensors adhere better and function correctly — particularly for in-lab tests where electrodes are placed on your body and head.

Avoid using:

• Lotions or oils on your face or chest

• Hairspray or gel, which can interfere with scalp electrodes

Pack Comfortably for In-Lab Sleep Studies

If you’re attending a sleep clinic, pack like you would for a short overnight stay:

• Comfortable pyjamas

• Your own pillow (optional, but often recommended)

• Toiletries

• A book or something relaxing for pre-sleep time

• Any medications you need

Sleep clinics in Australia typically provide towels, bedding, and private rooms. However, bringing familiar items can help you relax more easily.

Expect Some Equipment and Discomfort

Sleep tests involve wearing equipment like:

• Nasal cannulas or sensors under the nose

• Chest/abdomen belts to monitor breathing effort

• Finger pulse oximeters

• In some cases, electrodes on your scalp and face

If you're doing a home test, the technician will show you how to attach the devices, and it’s usually quite simple. While the gear might feel a little uncomfortable at first, most people adjust quickly.

Don’t worry if you don’t sleep perfectly — sleep specialists are trained to analyse even partial sleep data.

Record Symptoms and Sleep Issues

Before the test, jot down any symptoms you’ve experienced, such as:

• Snoring

• Gasping during sleep

• Frequent awakenings

• Daytime fatigue or headaches

You may also be asked to complete a sleep diary or Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionnaire, which helps your sleep specialist interpret the test results in context.

Stay Relaxed

Finally, try not to stress. It’s normal to feel a little nervous, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. But remember — sleep studies are non-invasive, painless, and provide valuable insight into your health.

Even if you don’t sleep as well as you normally would, the data collected is still useful for diagnosis.

After the Test: What to Expect

• For home tests, you’ll return the device the next morning (or as directed).

• A sleep physician will analyse the data, usually within 1–2 weeks.

• Your GP or specialist will go over the results and recommend treatment if needed (e.g., CPAP therapy, weight management, or other lifestyle changes).

In Summary

Preparing properly for a sleep apnea test can make the process smoother and ensure accurate results. By following a few simple guidelines—like avoiding caffeine and alcohol, showering before bed, and maintaining your usual sleep routine—you’re giving yourself the best chance for a successful diagnosis.

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, don’t delay testing. In Australia, Medicare often covers the cost when referred by a doctor, making access more affordable than many realise.

Good sleep starts with good information—and a sleep apnea test is the first step.