General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
For a sleep recording already prescribed, confirm the examination's name with the team. Respiratory polygraphy and polysomnography collect different information. Ask which study is planned for you, where it will take place and who will explain the report with you.
Night-time respiratory polygraphy records, among other measures, breathing movements, airflow through the nostrils and blood oxygen saturation. These measurements are followed during the night. They contribute to the medical sleep assessment.
Polysomnography also records brain activity, activity in certain muscles and eye movements. These measurements help assess sleep stages and sleep quality. This more comprehensive examination is chosen according to the assessment; it is not prescribed routinely for everyone.
In its March 2026 report, the HAS analyses IFAR recommendations that describe home tests as an option when sleep apnoea has a high clinical probability. Clarify the location and type of your examination with the team handling the referral.
That analysis calls for a further laboratory examination when a home test is negative, inconclusive or technically inadequate. The doctor assesses what the result means in your circumstances. Ask whether the recording answers the clinical question or whether another step is needed.
Ask the team how to use the sensors and return the equipment according to their instructions. On return, report an unusual night or a sensor problem. Keep the date for discussing the report: the doctor explains the results and the next stage of assessment with you.
Sources
Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.