Article · 2 min read
What Happens at a Sleep Clinic Appointment?
Your first sleep clinic visit doesn't have to be intimidating. Here's exactly what to expect at your sleep medicine appointment.
General information, not medical advice. Read our disclaimer.
SLEEP CLINIC · FIRST VISIT
Your first visit at a glance
- 1–2weeksKeep a sleep diary first
- There is no need to worry about your first visit.
- Getting ready helps you make the most of it.
- Your doctor will ask about sleep and check your airway.
- You may get a sleep study, lifestyle tips or treatment.
- Bring your bed partner if you can.
At your first sleep clinic visit, your doctor talks with you about your sleep, reviews your health and checks your airway. Then your sleep doctor makes an evaluation plan just for you. A little preparing helps you make the most of the visit.
Is there anything to worry about?
Visiting a sleep clinic for the first time can feel new and strange. But there is no need to worry. Here is what happens during a typical sleep medicine visit.
How should you prepare?
- Sleep diary — Keep a sleep diary for 1-2 weeks. Note bedtimes, wake times and symptoms.
- Ask your bed partner — Ask about your snoring and breathing patterns. Bring your bed partner if you can, so they can share what they notice.
- Medicine list — List all medicines and supplements.
- Questions — Write down your questions.
What happens during the visit?
- Talk — A detailed talk about your sleep habits and symptoms
- History — A review of your medical history and medicines
- Exam — A physical exam of your airway, neck, heart and blood vessels
- Questionnaires — Screening forms about your sleep and symptoms
- Testing — A talk about any tests your doctor recommends
What happens after the visit?
Based on what they find, your doctor may order a sleep study. They may also suggest lifestyle changes or start treatment. Follow-up visits make sure your treatment is working well.
SLEEP CLINIC · FIRST VISIT
What to expect
- 1
Keep a sleep diary
Note bedtimes, wake times and symptoms for 1–2 weeks.
Key point - 2
Gather your info
List medicines, supplements and questions; ask your partner about snoring.
- 3
Talk it through
Your doctor reviews your sleep habits, symptoms and health history.
- 4
Exam and forms
You get an airway, neck and heart exam plus questionnaires.
- 5
Next steps
Your doctor may order a sleep study or start treatment.
- 6
Follow-up visits
Follow-ups make sure your treatment is working well.
Common questions
What should I bring to my first sleep clinic appointment?
Trusted medical sources
This page follows guidance and research from leading medical organizations.
Further reading
- NHLBISleep Studies
- AASMWhat to Expect at a Sleep Center
- Mayo ClinicPolysomnography
- NIHSleep Disorders
- AASMSleep Education
- CDCSleep Health