Feeling tired even after getting a full night of sleep? Having difficulty concentrating throughout the day? If your quality of rest constantly feels like it’s not enough, you may have a sleep disorder. The first thing you should do is schedule a visit with your primary care physician or sleep specialist to discuss your symptoms. In preparation for your appointment, you can keep a sleep diary to help figure out why you’re having trouble sleeping. Below, you’ll learn how this journal can give you and your doctor valuable insight that can help diagnose sleep apnea.
What Is a Sleep Diary?
A sleep diary is essentially a record of how well you sleep and the factors that could be affecting your quality of rest. Knowing your sleep patterns and habits is useful in helping doctors better determine if a sleep study is necessary. To start a sleep diary, you can find templates online or download a convenient app on your smartphone.
Some information it may include are:
- Bedtimes and wake times
- How often you get up throughout the night
- Number of alcoholic and caffeinated beverages you consume throughout the day
- Medications you take during the day
- When and how much you exercise
- How refreshing overall sleep was
How a Sleep Diary Can Help Diagnose Sleep Apnea
One of the most significant advantages of keeping a sleep diary is that it can reveal many things you didn’t expect about your sleep patterns. It will provide you and your doctor with valuable insight into your overall quality of rest. However, a sleep diary alone is not enough to diagnose a sleep disorder, which is why you’ll need to take it with you to your appointment. During your visit, your doctor will review the data you’ve acquired and ask you questions about it. If deemed necessary, they may recommend you undergo a sleep study.
Other Ways to Track Your Sleep
You don’t have to rely on a sleep diary to track your sleep. There are alternative methods you can try, such as:
- Wearable Sleep Trackers: The device records both your sleep and activity by using sensors to measure your brain waves, heart rate, and movements.
- Actigraphy: Your doctor will give you this device to track your movement throughout the night, detecting when you’re asleep and when you’re awake. It’s useful for diagnosing insomnia, sleep apnea, and other disorders.
- Sleep Study: This is a test your doctor can order to confirm whether or not you have a sleep disorder. You’ll wear painless sensors on your head and body while you sleep to record brain activity, breathing, and other things throughout the night.
If you haven’t been sleeping well lately, you should start a sleep diary to figure out what’s going on. It could be your first step toward seeking sleep apnea treatment!
About the Practice
At Cornerstone Dental, we strive to provide truly exceptional service that’ll leave you smiling every time. From routine dental checkups to sleep apnea treatment, we’ve got everything you need for good overall health in one convenient location. To learn more about our sleep apnea services, visit our website or call (701) 237-3583.