Sleep Apnea Evaluation in India

OSA severity is measured by the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) — the number of breathing pauses per hour of sleep. An AHI of 5–15 is mild, 15–30 moderate and above 30 severe.

Effective treatment improves sleep, energy, concentration and blood pressure control.

• Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) — the most common type, due to airway collapse during sleep
• Central sleep apnoea — the brain does not send proper signals to breathe; seen in heart failure and some neurological conditions
• Complex (mixed) sleep apnoea — a combination of obstructive and central apnoea

• Loud, habitual snoring
• Breathing pauses noticed by a partner
• Waking up gasping or choking
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches and dry mouth
• Poor concentration and irritability

Seek urgent care if you fall asleep while driving or have chest pain or severe breathlessness at night.

• People with loud snoring and daytime sleepiness
• Patients with obesity, a large neck size or a small jaw
• Patients with resistant hypertension, heart disease or diabetes
• Professional drivers and people in safety-critical jobs
• Patients already on CPAP who need a review

Evaluation starts with a sleep consultation, questionnaires such as the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and an examination of the nose, throat and jaw.

Treatment depends on the severity of sleep apnoea and its causes:

A CPAP machine delivers gentle air pressure through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep — the most effective treatment for moderate and severe OSA.

A custom dental device that moves the lower jaw forward, useful for mild to moderate OSA.

Weight reduction and avoiding sleeping on the back can significantly reduce OSA.

ENT procedures for nasal or throat obstruction in selected patients.

The cost of sleep apnea evaluation in India depends on the tests and treatment required. Indicative costs at accredited hospitals are:

These figures are indicative and may vary by hospital, city and individual medical needs. Share your reports with us for a personalised, no-obligation estimate.

Factors affecting the cost:

• Type of sleep study
• Choice of CPAP device and mask
• Need for ENT evaluation or surgery
• Hospital category and city

CPAP therapy works from the first night, but it takes a few weeks to get used to the mask and machine.

Typical stay in India: 2–3 days for consultation, sleep study and starting CPAP.

Sleep studies are painless and safe. Possible issues with CPAP include:

• Mask discomfort — solved with the right size and type of mask
• Dry nose or mouth — relieved with a heated humidifier
• Air leaks or skin marks — improved with mask adjustment
• Difficulty getting used to CPAP — managed with support and gradual use

Your care team will explain the benefits and risks of each option before starting treatment.

• Lose weight if overweight — even 10% weight loss helps
• Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bedtime
• Sleep on your side rather than your back
• Use your CPAP every night, for the whole night
• Keep a regular sleep schedule
• Stop smoking

1. Share your reports — send your recent tests and medical history for a free specialist review.
2. Get a treatment plan and estimate — receive hospital options, the suggested plan and an indicative cost.
3. Travel assistance — help with the medical visa invitation letter, airport pickup and accommodation.
4. Evaluation and treatment — consultation, tests and therapy at an accredited hospital with a dedicated coordinator.
5. Return home with follow-up — discharge summary, medication plan and remote follow-up with your doctor.