Sleep Studies
The ARES (Apnea Risk Evaluation System) Watermark system is a portable home sleep study device designed to diagnose sleep apnea. Here’s how it’s performed:
- Device Setup: The ARES device is a compact, lightweight unit worn on the forehead with a headband. It includes sensors to monitor various physiological parameters like airflow, oxygen saturation, pulse rate, snoring, head movement, and EEG (electroencephalogram) for sleep staging.
- Patient Instruction: Patients receive instructions on how to properly wear and operate the ARES device. This typically includes fitting the headband snugly around the forehead, ensuring sensors are in the correct position, and how to start the recording.
- Data Collection: The patient wears the ARES device overnight while sleeping in their own bed. The device automatically collects data throughout the night, including respiratory events (apneas and hypopneas), blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and body position.
- Sleep Environment: Unlike traditional in-lab sleep studies, the ARES system allows patients to sleep in their natural home environment, which can result in more typical sleep patterns and accurate diagnostic data.
- Post-study Procedures: After the night of data collection, the patient removes the device and returns it to the healthcare provider. The collected data is then downloaded and analyzed.
- Data Analysis: The data from the ARES device is uploaded to a secure software platform, where it is analyzed to identify patterns indicative of sleep apnea. The software generates a detailed report, highlighting events like apneas, hypopneas, snoring, and oxygen desaturation episodes.
- Report Review: A sleep specialist reviews the report to confirm the diagnosis and severity of sleep apnea. The specialist may also consider additional factors like the patient’s medical history and symptoms to make a comprehensive assessment.
- Follow-up: Based on the results, the healthcare provider discusses the findings with the patient and recommends appropriate treatment options. This may include lifestyle changes, CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy, oral appliances, or other interventions.
The ARES Watermark system offers a convenient, accurate, and patient-friendly method for diagnosing sleep apnea, making it easier for individuals to undergo a sleep study in the comfort of their own home.