Sleep Apnoea Home Test Newcastle
A simple home sleep test to screen for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
This is an overnight sleep test for high-risk sleepy clients, who may have OSA. It is performed at home and the results are compiled into a report for the sleep consultant to review. Using a small finger sensor, the test records your oxygen levels (SpO₂) and pulse through the night to look for drops in oxygen that can happen when breathing repeatedly stops and starts.
Who it is for: People who snore loudly, have witnessed pauses in breathing, wake unrefreshed, are sleepy in the day, or have morning headaches, high blood pressure, obesity, atrial fibrillation, type 2 diabetes, or resistant hypertension. It’s also useful to monitor response to treatment over time.
Overnight oximetry helps us quickly understand whether OSA is likely and whether further tests or treatment would help. At IDOS we explain the process, make sure the device fits comfortably, and give you straightforward instructions. The next day your data are analysed and you’ll receive a plain-English explanation with next steps.
Overnight oximetry is a screening test. It does not detect all sleep disorders and does not replace a full polysomnography when that’s needed. Sometimes we’ll advise a repeat night or an additional test to confirm findings.
You’ll either collect the device from IDOS or receive it by post with simple instructions. Before bed, place the soft sensor on one finger (or a combined wrist/finger monitor, depending on the model) and settle to sleep as normal. The recorder logs your oxygen level and pulse continuously. In the morning you remove the sensor and return the kit (or upload/return as instructed). Our sleep clinician reviews your trace, calculates the oxygen-desaturation index (ODI) and other measures, and shares a clear summary with recommendations.
A little preparation helps the sensor read your oxygen level accurately all night, so the results truly reflect how you sleep. Clean, polish-free nails and a warm, well-perfused finger give a stronger signal and reduce gaps in the recording. Keeping your usual bedtime and routine also makes the test more representative.
If your question isn’t answered below, please contact us directly. We’ll be happy to advise the safest next step.
If you are in the UK and have urgent or emergency symptoms use NHS 111 or call 999.
It’s a home sleep test using a small finger (or wrist/finger) sensor that records oxygen levels (SpO₂) and pulse all night. We look for repeated oxygen dips that can occur with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
Yes. The sensor is soft and non-invasive. Most people sleep normally with it in place. There are no needles or wires around the face.
You’ll either collect the device from IDOS or receive it by post. In the morning you remove the sensor and return/upload as instructed. We sanitise and check every device between clients.
Usually no. Use your usual medicines and CPAP unless we advise otherwise. Sometimes we ask for the test with and without CPAP to compare.
ODI (oxygen-desaturation index) is how many times per hour your oxygen falls by a set amount (commonly 3–4%). Higher numbers suggest more frequent breathing interruptions and may indicate OSA.
Your recording is analysed and compiled into a report for the sleep consultant to review. We’ll explain whether results suggest OSA, whether you meet criteria for treatment or a full sleep study, and agree next steps.
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