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You can now test for sleep apnoea in your own bed, without an overnight hospital stay. A home sleep test records your breathing while you sleep, and a sleep specialist reviews the results. If you snore loudly, wake up gasping or feel exhausted every day, it's one of the quickest ways to get answers.
What is a home sleep test?
A home sleep test is a small device you wear for one night. It records signals such as your breathing patterns and oxygen levels, which show whether your breathing repeatedly stops or becomes shallow while you sleep. These pauses are the hallmark of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
The results give an AHI score: the number of breathing pauses per hour. The NHS uses these bands:
| AHI score | Severity |
|---|---|
| 5 to 14 | Mild |
| 15 to 30 | Moderate |
| Over 30 | Severe |
Source: NHS – Sleep apnoea
Who should consider a test?
According to the NHS, the main signs of sleep apnoea happen while you sleep:
- your breathing stopping and starting
- gasping, snorting or choking noises
- waking up a lot
- loud snoring
During the day you may feel very tired, find it hard to concentrate, have mood swings or wake with a headache. If a partner has noticed you stop breathing at night, that's a strong reason to get tested.
NHS or private: what are your options?
Through the NHS, you start with your GP. If they think you may have sleep apnoea, they can refer you to a specialist sleep clinic, which often sends you home with a testing device. If you need CPAP, the NHS provides it free. The trade-off is that waiting times vary by area.
Privately, you can order a home test directly, without a GP referral, and usually get results much faster. You pay for the test yourself. For a fuller comparison, see our guide to NHS vs private sleep apnoea diagnosis.
How the CPAP Studio Home Sleep Test works
- Order online. No GP referral needed.
- Complete a short clinical questionnaire by email, so your results are read alongside your symptoms and history.
- Receive your test kit. We use the AcuPebble SA100, a small sensor designed for home use.
- Sleep with it for one night in your own bed.
- Return the device using the prepaid return included.
- Get your report. Your study is reviewed by an HCPC Registered Clinical Sleep Scientist, and you receive a personalised report with recommendations.
- Optional consultation. Book a 30-minute online consultation to talk through your results and next steps.
How much does it cost?
| Option | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Home Sleep Assessment | £189 | Test device, questionnaire, specialist review, personalised report |
| Assessment + Clinical Consultation | £210 | Everything above, plus a 30-minute online consultation |
What happens after your results?
- No sleep apnoea: your report may suggest other causes of your symptoms to discuss with your GP.
- Mild sleep apnoea: lifestyle changes such as losing weight, cutting down on alcohol and sleeping on your side may be enough, according to the NHS.
- Moderate or severe: CPAP is the most common treatment. Your specialist can explain your options, and our guide to the top questions after a diagnosis is a good next read.
Private results aren't added to your NHS record automatically, but you can share your report with your GP.
Common questions
Is a home test as good as a sleep clinic?
For suspected obstructive sleep apnoea in adults, home testing is widely used, including by NHS sleep clinics. It isn't suitable for every sleep disorder; if your symptoms point to something else, your report will say so.
Does it hurt?
No. The sensor is small and non-invasive, and you sleep in your own bed.
Do I need to tell the DVLA?
If sleep apnoea with excessive sleepiness is confirmed, you may need to tell the DVLA and must not drive until symptoms are under control. Read our guide to sleep apnoea and driving in the UK.
This article is general information, not medical advice. A home sleep test is not an emergency service. If you have chest pain or severe breathing difficulties, call 999.
