What Doctor Should I See For Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea affects nearly 1 billion people worldwide, yet up to 80-90% remain undiagnosed. If you suspect you have this serious sleep disorder, knowing which specialist to consult is your first step toward diagnosis, treatment, and reclaiming restful nights. This comprehensive guide explains every type of doctor who treats sleep apnea, what to expect during consultations, diagnostic tests, treatment options, and costs—everything you need to navigate your path to better sleep.
Sleep apnea, or obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by repeated breathing interruptions during sleep. These pauses—called apneas—can occur 30 or more times per hour in severe cases, causing oxygen levels to drop, fragmenting sleep, and placing enormous strain on your cardiovascular system.
The consequences extend far beyond daytime fatigue. Untreated sleep apnea significantly increases your risk of hypertension, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and even premature death. Research shows that up to 83% of patients with resistant hypertension have undiagnosed sleep apnea, and individuals with severe OSA face a threefold higher risk of developing cardiovascular complications.
The good news? Sleep apnea is highly treatable once diagnosed. But the first—and often most confusing—step is knowing which doctor to see. Your general practitioner (GP) serves as the gateway to specialist care, but depending on your specific symptoms, underlying conditions, and the cause of your apnea, you may be referred to various specialists including pulmonologists, ENT doctors, cardiologists, neurologists, or sleep-specialized dentists.
💡 Key Insight: Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Studies consistently show that delays of 5-10 years are common before receiving a sleep apnea diagnosis. During this time, untreated OSA silently damages your body, strains relationships, impairs work performance, and increases accident risk. The economic burden of undiagnosed sleep apnea in the United States alone exceeds $150 billion annually in lost productivity, healthcare costs, and accidents.
What Symptoms Require a Sleep Apnea Consultation?
Recognizing the warning signs is crucial for seeking timely medical attention. Sleep apnea symptoms often develop gradually, and many people dismiss them as normal aging, stress, or simply being a "bad sleeper." However, if you experience multiple symptoms from the list below, it's time to discuss sleep apnea with your doctor.
Chronic Fatigue
Persistent tiredness despite sleeping 7-8 hours. Waking up feeling unrefreshed is a hallmark symptom that affects daily functioning and quality of life.
Loud Snoring
Snoring loud enough to disturb your partner or be heard through walls. 94% of OSA patients snore, though not all snorers have sleep apnea.
Gasping/Choking Episodes
Waking suddenly with a sensation of choking, gasping for air, or feeling like you can't breathe. Often reported by bed partners witnessing these episodes.
Daytime Drowsiness
Excessive sleepiness during the day, falling asleep during activities, difficulty concentrating, and microsleeps while driving or working.
Complete Symptom Checklist
| Nighttime Symptoms | Daytime Symptoms | Physical Signs |
|---|---|---|
|
• Loud, chronic snoring • Witnessed breathing pauses • Gasping or choking during sleep • Restless sleep, frequent awakenings • Night sweats • Frequent urination (nocturia) • Insomnia or difficulty staying asleep |
• Excessive daytime sleepiness • Morning headaches • Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking • Difficulty concentrating • Memory problems • Mood changes, irritability • Depression or anxiety |
• Neck circumference >17" (men) or >16" (women) • Obesity (BMI ≥30) • Large tonsils or adenoids • Recessed chin or small jaw • High blood pressure • Family history of sleep apnea • Age over 40 |
🚨 Red Flags: See a Doctor Immediately If You Experience
- Witnessed apneas: Your partner observes you stop breathing during sleep
- Severe daytime sleepiness: Falling asleep while driving, working, or in mid-conversation
- High blood pressure that doesn't respond to medication
- Recent stroke, heart attack, or arrhythmia
- Morning headaches occurring 3+ times per week
Sleep apnea increases cardiovascular risk significantly. Don't wait—early intervention can be life-saving.
Which Doctors Diagnose and Treat Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a multidisciplinary condition—no single doctor handles every aspect. Your healthcare journey typically begins with your general practitioner, who will assess your symptoms and refer you to the appropriate specialist based on your specific situation. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of every type of doctor involved in sleep apnea care:
Your First Point of Contact: General Practitioner (GP)
Your primary care physician is the gateway to sleep apnea diagnosis. They will:
- Take a detailed medical history and assess your symptoms
- Perform initial physical examination (check throat, neck circumference, BMI)
- Rule out other conditions with similar symptoms
- Order preliminary tests or screening questionnaires (Epworth Sleepiness Scale, STOP-BANG)
- Refer you to the appropriate specialist based on findings
- Manage mild cases with lifestyle recommendations (weight loss, position therapy)
💡 Pro Tip: Preparing for Your GP Appointment
Bring a symptom diary tracking your sleep quality, snoring patterns, and daytime fatigue for at least 2 weeks. If possible, have your bed partner describe what they observe during your sleep. This information is invaluable for your doctor.
Specialist Doctors for Sleep Apnea
Pulmonologist (Lung Specialist)
Respiratory specialists who focus on breathing disorders, including OSA. Often the primary specialist for sleep apnea diagnosis and management.
- Conducts and interprets polysomnography
- Prescribes CPAP, BiPAP, APAP therapy
- Manages cases with coexisting lung conditions (COPD, asthma)
- Monitors oxygen levels and respiratory function
- Coordinates with sleep labs
Sleep Medicine Specialist
Board-certified physicians specifically trained in all types of sleep disorders. The gold standard for complex sleep apnea cases.
- Specialized expertise in sleep architecture
- Conducts comprehensive sleep studies
- Diagnoses OSA, CSA, complex sleep apnea
- Personalizes treatment plans
- Manages CPAP titration and compliance
ENT Specialist (Otolaryngologist)
Experts in the upper airway structures—nose, throat, and surrounding anatomy. Essential for identifying anatomical causes of obstruction.
- Examines pharynx, uvula, tonsils, tongue
- Checks nasal septum and turbinates
- Identifies nasal obstructions or deviated septum
- Performs Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE)
- Recommends surgical interventions
Cardiologist
Heart specialists who manage cardiovascular complications of sleep apnea and assess heart-related symptoms.
- Evaluates heart rhythm abnormalities
- Manages hypertension linked to OSA
- Assesses stroke and heart failure risk
- Monitors atrial fibrillation cases
- Coordinates care for cardiac patients with OSA
Neurologist
Brain and nervous system specialists who handle central sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and neurological causes of sleep disorders.
- Diagnoses central sleep apnea (CSA)
- Treats patients with stroke, Parkinson's, ALS
- Manages restless leg syndrome
- Addresses persistent insomnia
- Evaluates brain-related breathing control issues
Sleep Dentist / Dental Sleep Medicine Specialist
Dentists with specialized training in oral appliance therapy—a key CPAP alternative for mild to moderate OSA.
- Creates custom mandibular advancement devices (MADs)
- Assesses jaw and teeth for appliance suitability
- Treats TMJ disorders related to OSA
- Adjusts and monitors oral appliances
- Works alongside sleep physicians
Additional Specialists You May Encounter
| Specialist | When You're Referred | What They Do |
|---|---|---|
| Bariatric Surgeon | Severe obesity (BMI ≥40) or BMI ≥35 with OSA | Weight loss surgery can dramatically improve or resolve sleep apnea in obese patients |
| Oral/Maxillofacial Surgeon | Significant jaw or facial structural issues | Performs maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery to reposition jaw bones |
| Urologist | Male patients with urological symptoms | OSA linked to erectile dysfunction, nocturia, and prostate issues in men |
| Psychiatrist/Psychologist | Depression, anxiety, or cognitive issues | Addresses mental health impacts of chronic sleep deprivation |
| Endocrinologist | Diabetes, thyroid disorders, hormonal issues | Manages metabolic conditions that worsen or are worsened by OSA |
How Is Sleep Apnea Testing Conducted?
Diagnosing sleep apnea requires objective measurement of your breathing patterns during sleep. There are two primary diagnostic pathways: home sleep tests and in-lab polysomnography. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate test based on your symptoms, risk factors, and suspected severity.
Diagnostic Pathway Overview
Initial Consultation
GP assesses symptoms, performs physical exam, orders preliminary screening
Specialist Referral
Referred to pulmonologist, sleep specialist, or ENT based on findings
Sleep Study
Home sleep test or in-lab polysomnography ordered
Diagnosis & Treatment
Results interpreted, AHI score determined, treatment plan created
Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT)
Also called nocturnal ventilatory polygraphy, this is often the first-line diagnostic test for uncomplicated suspected OSA. It's convenient, cost-effective, and can be done in the comfort of your own bed.
📊 What Home Sleep Tests Measure
- Airflow: Nasal cannula captures breathing patterns
- Respiratory effort: Chest and abdominal belts measure breathing movements
- Oxygen saturation: Pulse oximeter on fingertip monitors blood oxygen levels
- Heart rate: Continuous cardiac monitoring
- Body position: Some devices track sleep position
Setup time: ~10 minutes | Duration: 1-2 nights | Results: 10-14 business days
✅ Advantages of Home Sleep Tests
- Sleep in your own bed for more natural results
- No overnight hospital stay required
- Significantly lower cost (€150-€500 vs €1,000-€3,000+)
- Shorter wait times than lab appointments
- Convenient for patients with mobility issues
⚠️ Limitations of Home Sleep Tests
- Only tests for obstructive sleep apnea—cannot diagnose central sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or other disorders
- May underestimate severity in some patients, especially women (REM-related events)
- ~20% of patients may need follow-up in-lab study if results are inconclusive
- Not suitable for patients with complex conditions (heart failure, COPD, neurological disorders)
In-Lab Polysomnography (PSG)
Polysomnography is the comprehensive "gold standard" sleep study performed overnight in a sleep laboratory, hospital, or specialized sleep center. It provides the most detailed analysis of your sleep.
| Measurement | What It Records | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Electroencephalogram (EEG) | Brain wave activity | Determines sleep stages (N1, N2, N3, REM) and arousals |
| Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) | Heart rhythm and rate | Detects arrhythmias and cardiac events during sleep |
| Electromyogram (EMG) | Muscle activity | Monitors leg movements (RLS) and chin muscle tone |
| Electro-oculogram (EOG) | Eye movements | Identifies REM sleep stages |
| Respiratory sensors | Airflow, effort, snoring | Counts apneas, hypopneas, and respiratory events |
| Pulse oximetry | Blood oxygen levels | Measures oxygen desaturations |
| Video recording | Body position, movements | Documents sleep behaviors and position-related events |
🏥 What to Expect During an In-Lab Sleep Study
- Arrival: Check in at the sleep center in the evening (typically 8-9 PM)
- Setup: Technician attaches sensors and electrodes (~30-45 minutes)
- Sleep: Sleep naturally while being monitored (private room, usually hotel-like)
- Morning: Wake up, sensors removed, you go home (~6-7 AM)
- Results: Sleep physician interprets data within 1-2 weeks
Note: Some studies include split-night testing—if severe OSA is detected in the first half, CPAP titration begins immediately in the second half.
Additional Diagnostic Tests
Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE)
Performed by ENT specialists, DISE involves examining your airway with a small camera while you're sedated to simulate sleep. This helps identify exactly where your airway collapses—crucial information for planning surgical interventions or selecting the right treatment approach.
Fiberoptic Nasolaryngoscopy
A standard office-based scope exam where the ENT visualizes your nasal passages, soft palate, tongue base, and throat structures while you're awake. Quick, minimally invasive, and provides valuable anatomical information.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
Used primarily to diagnose narcolepsy, this daytime test measures how quickly you fall asleep and whether you enter REM sleep abnormally fast. Conducted the day after polysomnography.
Understanding Your Sleep Apnea Severity: The AHI Scale
The Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) is the primary metric used to diagnose sleep apnea and determine its severity. It measures the average number of breathing interruptions (apneas and hypopneas) you experience per hour of sleep.
📊 What AHI Measures
- Apnea: Complete cessation of airflow for ≥10 seconds
- Hypopnea: Partial reduction in airflow (≥30%) for ≥10 seconds, with oxygen desaturation or arousal
- AHI = (Total apneas + hypopneas) ÷ Hours of sleep
AHI Severity Classification
| Severity Level | AHI Score (Adults) | What It Means | Typical Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | <5 events/hour | No sleep apnea diagnosis | None required |
| Mild OSA | 5-14 events/hour | Breathing interruptions occur, but less frequently. May still significantly impact sleep quality. | Lifestyle changes, positional therapy, oral appliances |
| Moderate OSA | 15-29 events/hour | More frequent breathing disruptions causing notable daytime symptoms and health risks. | CPAP, oral appliances, possible surgery |
| Severe OSA | ≥30 events/hour | Significant breathing interruptions causing major oxygen desaturations and health consequences. | CPAP (primary), surgery, combination therapy |
⚠️ Important: AHI Doesn't Tell the Whole Story
While AHI is the standard metric, it has limitations:
- Duration ignored: A 10-second apnea counts the same as a 60-second apnea
- Apnea vs hypopnea: Both counted equally, though apneas cause more severe desaturation
- Position not considered: Events may be concentrated when sleeping on your back
- Symptoms don't always correlate: Some people with low AHI feel terrible; others with high AHI feel fine
Your doctor will consider your overall symptoms, oxygen levels, and health profile—not just the AHI number.
Pediatric AHI Standards
Children have different thresholds because their faster respiratory rates make even small numbers of events significant:
- Normal: AHI <1 event/hour
- Mild: AHI 1-5 events/hour
- Moderate: AHI 6-10 events/hour
- Severe: AHI >10 events/hour
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options: A Complete Comparison
Once diagnosed, your specialist will recommend treatment based on your OSA severity, underlying causes, lifestyle, and preferences. Here's a comprehensive overview of all available treatments:
CPAP Therapy: The Gold Standard
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) remains the most effective treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. A bedside machine delivers constant pressurized air through a mask, keeping your airway open throughout the night.
CPAP Benefits
Highly effective (80%+ when compliant), immediate symptom relief, reduces cardiovascular risk, non-invasive, covered by insurance
CPAP Drawbacks
Mask discomfort, noise, dry mouth/nose, claustrophobia, maintenance required, travel inconvenience, 30-50% struggle with compliance
CPAP Cost
Machine: €500-€2,000. Annual supplies (masks, filters, tubing): €200-€500. Often covered by insurance with prescription.
CPAP Compliance
Studies show only ~50% of patients use CPAP consistently. Medicare requires ≥4 hours/night on 70% of nights for continued coverage.
Oral Appliance Therapy: A Comfortable Alternative
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) and other oral appliances are custom-fitted mouthpieces that reposition your jaw and tongue forward to keep the airway open. They're recommended as first-line treatment for mild to moderate OSA or as an alternative for CPAP-intolerant patients.
| Feature | CPAP Therapy | Oral Appliances |
|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness (AHI reduction) | 80-95% reduction | 50-70% reduction (comparable health outcomes) |
| Compliance Rate | ~50% long-term | ~90% long-term |
| Best For | Moderate to severe OSA | Mild to moderate OSA, CPAP-intolerant patients |
| Comfort | Variable; many find masks uncomfortable | Generally more comfortable after adjustment |
| Portability | Bulky; requires electricity | Highly portable; no power needed |
| Noise | Some noise from machine/mask | Silent |
| Initial Cost | €500-€2,000 | €1,500-€2,500 (custom-fitted) |
| Side Effects | Dry mouth, skin irritation, sinus issues | Jaw discomfort, tooth sensitivity, bite changes |
✅ Key Finding: Health Outcomes Are Similar
Research shows that despite lower AHI reduction, oral appliances produce equivalent cardiovascular and quality-of-life outcomes compared to CPAP—largely because patients actually use them consistently. A treatment you use is better than one you abandon!
Surgical Options
Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail or when specific anatomical abnormalities are identified as the cause of obstruction.
| Surgery Type | What It Does | Best Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty) | Removes excess tissue from soft palate, uvula, and pharynx | Patients with visible palatal obstruction |
| Tonsillectomy/Adenoidectomy | Removes enlarged tonsils and adenoids | Children (most common pediatric treatment); adults with large tonsils |
| Septoplasty | Corrects deviated nasal septum | Patients with significant nasal obstruction |
| MMA (Maxillomandibular Advancement) | Moves both upper and lower jaw forward | Severe OSA with jaw abnormalities; CPAP failures |
| Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (Inspire) | Implanted device stimulates tongue muscle to prevent collapse | Moderate-severe OSA; CPAP-intolerant; BMI ≤32 |
Lifestyle Modifications
Regardless of other treatments, lifestyle changes can significantly improve—and sometimes resolve—sleep apnea:
- Weight loss: Even 10% weight reduction can decrease AHI by 26% in overweight patients
- Positional therapy: Sleeping on your side instead of your back (position-dependent OSA)
- Alcohol avoidance: No alcohol within 3-4 hours of bedtime (relaxes throat muscles)
- Smoking cessation: Smoking increases airway inflammation and OSA risk
- Exercise: Regular physical activity reduces OSA severity even without weight loss
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment Costs
Understanding the financial aspects of sleep apnea care helps you plan and make informed decisions. Costs vary significantly based on your location, insurance coverage, and chosen treatment path.
Diagnostic Test Costs
| Test Type | Without Insurance | With Insurance | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Sleep Test (HSAT) | €150-€500 | €0-€100 (copay) | Days to 2 weeks |
| In-Lab Polysomnography | €1,000-€3,000+ | €100-€500 (after deductible) | 2 weeks to 1 year |
| CPAP Titration Study | €500-€2,000 | €50-€300 | 2-6 weeks |
| MSLT (Multiple Sleep Latency Test) | €1,000-€2,500 | €100-€400 | 2-8 weeks |
⚠️ Wait Time Alert
In-lab sleep study wait times can reach up to 1 year in some regions. Home sleep tests typically have much shorter wait times and are increasingly preferred by insurance companies as the initial screening method.
Treatment Costs
| Treatment | Initial Cost | Annual Ongoing Costs | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPAP Machine | €500-€2,000 | €200-€500 (supplies) | Usually covered with prescription |
| Oral Appliance (Custom) | €1,500-€2,500 | €0-€200 (adjustments) | Often covered under medical insurance |
| Inspire Implant | €20,000-€40,000 | €0-€500 | Covered by many insurers |
| UPPP Surgery | €5,000-€15,000 | N/A | Pre-approval often required |
| MMA Surgery | €20,000-€60,000 | N/A | May require extensive documentation |
Insurance Coverage Tips
💡 Maximizing Your Coverage
- Medicare: Covers 80% of medically necessary sleep studies and CPAP after deductible
- Compliance requirements: Medicare requires CPAP use ≥4 hours/night on 70% of nights for continued coverage
- In-network providers: Using in-network sleep labs can reduce costs by 50% or more
- Pre-authorization: Many insurers require pre-approval for in-lab studies and oral appliances
- Documentation: Keep records of symptoms, previous treatments, and compliance data
Financial Assistance Resources
- American Sleep Apnea Association CPAP Assistance Program: Provides affordable equipment for those who can't afford it
- Reggie White Sleep Disorders Research Foundation: Offers CPAP therapy equipment to qualifying patients
- Payment plans: Many sleep centers and DME providers offer financing options
- Generic CPAP supplies: Third-party masks and accessories can significantly reduce ongoing costs
Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Sleep Apnea
Being prepared for your medical appointments ensures you get the most from each consultation. Here are essential questions to ask at different stages of your sleep apnea journey:
Questions for Your Initial Consultation
Questions After Diagnosis
Questions About CPAP Therapy
How to Prepare for Your Sleep Apnea Consultation
Proper preparation maximizes the value of your medical appointments and helps ensure accurate diagnosis. Follow this checklist before your consultation:
Two Weeks Before Your Appointment
Start a Sleep Diary
Record bedtime, wake time, number of awakenings, how rested you feel (1-10 scale), daytime sleepiness episodes, and any symptoms.
Ask Your Partner to Observe
Have your bed partner note snoring intensity, witnessed breathing pauses, gasping episodes, and restless movements.
Use a Sleep Tracking App
Apps like SnoreLab can record your snoring patterns and provide objective data for your doctor.
Gather Medical History
Compile list of all medications, previous surgeries, medical conditions, and family history of sleep disorders.
Day of Your Appointment: What to Bring
- ✅ Your sleep diary and partner's observations
- ✅ List of all current medications (including supplements)
- ✅ Insurance card and referral documentation
- ✅ List of questions you want to ask
- ✅ Comfortable clothing (you may have a physical exam)
- ✅ Medical records from previous sleep-related consultations
Preparing for Your Sleep Study
✅ Sleep Study Preparation Tips
- Avoid caffeine after noon on the day of your study
- Skip alcohol for 24-48 hours before the test
- Don't nap the day of your study
- Wash your hair but avoid styling products (interfere with electrodes)
- Remove nail polish from at least one finger (for oximeter)
- Bring comfortable pajamas and any items from your bedtime routine
- Continue taking regular medications unless instructed otherwise
- Eat a normal dinner—but not too heavy or spicy
Real Patient Experiences
"I suffered for years thinking my fatigue was just stress. My GP referred me to a pulmonologist after I mentioned my wife's complaints about my snoring. The sleep study revealed severe OSA with 58 events per hour. CPAP changed my life—I finally know what feeling rested means."
Diagnosed after referral to pulmonologist
"I couldn't tolerate CPAP—the mask gave me claustrophobia and I kept ripping it off in my sleep. My sleep dentist fitted me with a custom oral appliance, and my AHI dropped from 22 to 6. It's been 3 years, and I use it every single night without fail."
Switched from CPAP to oral appliance
"My cardiologist was the one who suspected sleep apnea because my blood pressure wasn't responding to medication. The connection between my heart issues and undiagnosed OSA was eye-opening. Treating my sleep apnea actually helped control my hypertension."
Diagnosed through cardiologist referral
Frequently Asked Questions
📋 Quick Reference: Your Sleep Apnea Action Plan
- Recognize symptoms: Loud snoring, witnessed breathing pauses, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches
- See your GP: Discuss symptoms and request referral to appropriate specialist
- Get tested: Home sleep test or in-lab polysomnography
- Understand your AHI: Mild (5-14), Moderate (15-29), Severe (≥30)
- Explore treatment options: CPAP, oral appliances, surgery, lifestyle changes
- Follow up: Monitor treatment effectiveness and compliance
Remember: Up to 90% of sleep apnea cases go undiagnosed. Taking action today could prevent serious health consequences tomorrow.
Additional Resources
Continue your sleep health journey with these helpful resources:
- Complete Guide to Sleep Apnea — Understanding causes, risks, and solutions
- Anti-Snoring Nasal Stent Device — Discover the Back2Sleep intranasal orthosis
- Best Sleep Apnea Solutions 2025 — Latest treatments and innovations
- Sleep Health Blog — Expert articles on sleep disorders
- Find a Partner Pharmacy — Locations across Europe
Ready to Take Control of Your Sleep Health?
Don't let sleep apnea silently damage your health and quality of life. With nearly 1 billion people affected worldwide, you're not alone—and effective solutions exist. The Back2Sleep intranasal stent offers a discreet, comfortable alternative for snoring and mild-to-moderate sleep apnea, with 92% effectiveness from night one.
Try the Back2Sleep Starter Kit€39 Starter Kit | 4 sizes included | 15-day trial period | About Back2Sleep | Contact Us
