When should you refer a patient for suspected sleep apnea?

Referring a patient for suspected sleep apnea is most warranted when they report excessive daytime sleepiness. This symptom is a hallmark of sleep apnea, as it indicates that the individual is not achieving restorative sleep due to intermittent breathing interruptions during the night. Excessive daytime sleepiness can significantly impact a person's daily functioning, work performance, and overall quality of life, making it a crucial indicator for further evaluation and possible referral for sleep studies or specialized care.

The presence of occasional snoring, mild headaches, or night sweats may be related to sleep issues but do not necessarily indicate sleep apnea on their own. While snoring can be associated with sleep apnea, it is not definitive. Mild headaches might arise for various reasons unrelated to sleep apnea, and night sweats can be symptomatic of other conditions that do not involve sleep disorders. Therefore, excessive daytime sleepiness directly links to the need for further assessment of sleep apnea.