Waking up tired, snoring loudly, or feeling groggy all day? You might be wondering if you have sleep apnea and whether you can diagnose it yourself. With so many online quizzes and CPAP machines available at the click of a button, it’s tempting to skip the doctor and try to treat it on your own.
But self-diagnosing sleep apnea can be risky. Here’s why getting a proper diagnosis and personalized care plan from a trusted sleep clinic like one of our member clinics is the safest and most effective way to get the sleep your body needs.
What Is Sleep Apnea and How Is It Diagnosed?
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes you to stop breathing for short periods during sleep. There are different types, including:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – caused by a blocked airway
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) – caused by brain signal issues
- Complex or Mixed Apnea – a combination of both
Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even depression. It can also lead to constant fatigue, poor concentration, and memory problems.
That’s why a proper diagnosis matters. It helps determine the type and severity of sleep apnea so you can get the right treatment from the start.
Is It Safe to Diagnose Sleep Apnea on Your Own?
Online symptom checkers, YouTube videos, and blog posts might suggest sleep apnea, but they’re no substitute for a medical diagnosis. Many symptoms overlap with other conditions, like:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Restless leg syndrome
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
If you assume it’s sleep apnea and start treatment on your own, you could be missing the real issue or worse, using a therapy that makes things worse.
Can You Buy CPAP Machines Without a Sleep Study?
Yes, some websites sell CPAP machines without requiring a prescription. But that doesn’t mean it’s safe or effective.
Here’s why buying CPAP online without a diagnosis is risky:
- No customization: CPAP therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. You need the right pressure settings for your condition.
- Wrong mask or fit: A poorly fitting mask can cause air leaks, discomfort, and low effectiveness.
- No follow-up support: If you have trouble adjusting or experience side effects, there’s no expert to guide you.
Using the wrong machine or settings can lead to dry mouth, bloating, disrupted sleep, or no improvement at all.
The Benefits of a Professional Sleep Study
A professional sleep study can:
- Confirm whether you have sleep apnea
- Determine the type (OSA, CSA, or complex)
- Measure severity and how it affects your oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep cycles
Once your results are in, we create a treatment plan personalized to you, not just your symptoms.
Why You Should Get Fitted for CPAP Therapy by a Sleep Specialist
Buying a CPAP online is like buying glasses without an eye exam. You might end up with something that doesn’t fit, doesn’t work, or even makes things worse. At Resolve member clinics, we help you:
- Choose the most comfortable and effective mask
- Set the right pressure levels for your needs
- Adjust your equipment as your body and sleep patterns change
You’ll also get expert support to help you stay on track and get the most out of your therapy.
Get a Proper Diagnosis, Not Just a Device
If you’re wondering whether you have sleep apnea, don’t guess. Find a clinic near you, and we’ll help you get the answers and the right treatment to sleep better and feel better.