Untreated, sleep apnea can cause high blood pressure, myocarditis , lethargy, confusion, somnolence, weight gain, impotency, and headaches. In addition, sleep apnea may be the cause for poor job performance and automobile crashes. Fortunately, sleep apnea is easily diagnosed and can be treated. There are several treatment options available.

The first step is to be diagnosed. This may include a physical examination of the throat and mouth to detect any defects or abnormalities. A sleep study is usually performed. While you sleep, your heart is monitored using an ECG machine, to show any arrhythmia that may be occurring. An arterial blood gas test may be performed to check the oxygen levels in the system.

Before you go to have your sleep study, it is important to avoid taking any alcohol, caffeine or sleep aids.

The sleep study is usually performed during the night at a sleep center. When you get there, you will be asked to lie down on a bed and electrodes will be place on the scalp, around the eyes, and chin. Monitors will be attached to record your breathing and heart rate. This should not be painful in anyway. They will usually take a reading before you go to sleep, to have a comparison. As you sleep they will measure how long it takes for you to enter into REM as well as your breathing and heart rate patterns.

The cost of the test varies depending on the measurements made, how often the tests are to be repeated, and the laboratory fees. The range may be from $300 for one night to $2,000, averaging about $900. Most insurance companies and public aide insurances cover at least some of these costs.