Your Guide to Better Sleep and Health with Resolve Sleep Health
Introduction
Sleep is essential to overall wellness, yet millions of Canadians suffer from sleep disorders like sleep apnea without even realizing it. If you’re struggling with daytime fatigue, loud snoring, or restless nights, you may have heard about sleep studies as the first step toward diagnosis and treatment. But what’s the difference between a Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT) and Polysomnography (PSG)? In this blog, we’ll break down both options, highlighting their pros, cons, and how to choose the right one for your needs in the Canadian healthcare landscape. As leaders in sleep health, Resolve Sleep Health is here to guide you every step of the way.
What Is a Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT)?
A Home Sleep Apnea Test, also known as HSAT, is a simplified sleep study prescribed to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Unlike traditional sleep studies conducted in a lab, HSAT allows you to sleep in the comfort of your own home while wearing a portable monitoring device. This device typically records breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and snoring—all the essentials needed to detect sleep apnea.
- Convenience: Conducted at home, making it less disruptive and more comfortable.
- Cost-effective: Often covered by Canadian provincial health plans or insurance and generally less expensive than in-lab studies.
- Quick Results: Faster scheduling and turnaround times.
What Is Polysomnography (PSG)?
Polysomnography, commonly referred to as PSG, is a comprehensive sleep study performed overnight at a specialized sleep clinic or hospital. PSG monitors a wide array of physiological parameters, including brain activity (EEG), eye movements, muscle activity, heart rhythm, breathing effort, airflow, and blood oxygen levels. This makes PSG the gold standard for diagnosing not just sleep apnea, but a range of sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, periodic limb movement disorder, and REM behavior disorder.
- Comprehensive Data: Provides a detailed picture of your sleep cycles and potential disruptions.
- Expert Supervision: Supervised by trained sleep technologists, ensuring the highest accuracy.
- Broader Diagnostics: Ideal for complex cases or when other sleep disorders are suspected.
HSAT vs. PSG: Key Differences for Canadians
| Feature | HSAT | PSG |
| Location | At home | Sleep clinic or hospital |
| Monitored Parameters | Breathing, oxygen, heart rate, snoring | All HSAT parameters plus brain, eye, and muscle activity |
| Disorders Diagnosed | Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) | OSA and other sleep disorders |
| Cost & Coverage | Usually covered by provincial health plans/insurance, lower cost | May have higher costs, coverage varies by province and referral |
| Comfort & Convenience | Very high—sleep in your own bed | May be less comfortable, clinical setting |
| Wait Times | Shorter | Longer (due to limited lab availability) |
Which Sleep Test Is Right for You?
In Canada, most patients suspected of having moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea will start with an HSAT due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness. However, if your symptoms are complex or suggest other sleep disorders, your healthcare provider may recommend a PSG for a more comprehensive evaluation. It’s important to discuss your symptoms and medical history with a sleep health expert to determine the best approach.
Why Choose Resolve Sleep Health?
At Resolve Sleep Health, we combine medical expertise with a patient-first approach to ensure you get the right diagnosis and treatment plan. Our team of certified sleep experts will guide you through the process, from initial consultation to completing your sleep study and starting therapy if required. Whether you need an HSAT or PSG, we help you navigate the Canadian healthcare system and achieve better sleep, faster.
Book Your Sleep Assessment Today
Don’t let sleep problems go undiagnosed. Take the first step toward restful nights and improved health. Book your appointment with a Resolve Sleep Health expert today and discover how easy it is to get started on your journey to better sleep. Click here to schedule your consultation now!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a referral needed for a sleep study in Canada? – In many provinces, a referral from your family doctor is required for PSG, but HSAT may be available directly through sleep health clinics like Resolve Sleep Health.
- How long does it take to get results? – HSAT results are typically available within a week, while PSG results may take longer due to lab analysis and waitlists.
- Is the home sleep test accurate? – For obstructive sleep apnea, HSAT is highly accurate and recommended for most patients.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between HSAT and PSG empowers you to make informed decisions about your sleep health. If you’re experiencing sleep issues, don’t wait—connect with Resolve Sleep Health and let our experts help you reclaim your restful nights.