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Commonly asked questions
MD is here to support your health journey, offering guidance, expert care, and a patient-first approach at every step.
What is the difference between snoring and sleep apnea?
Snoring is the sound produced when soft tissue in the throat vibrates during sleep. Sleep apnea is a medical condition in which breathing actually stops and starts repeatedly throughout the night. While many people with sleep apnea snore, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. A Sleep Apnea Diagnosis can only be made following a proper clinical assessment.
Do I need a referral to visit Somnotech Sleep Clinic?
No. You can book a consultation directly without a referral. If you have reports from a previous sleep study or relevant medical history, it helps to bring these along, but they are not required.
Sleep study
At Somnotech, patients undergo a Comprehensive Advanced Sleep Study Test (Level 1 Polysomnography), the gold standard for evaluating sleep disorders and sleep-disordered breathing.
Conducted in a clinical setting, this detailed overnight study records multiple physiological parameters simultaneously, including breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, body position, and brain activity through EEG monitoring. This comprehensive assessment provides a precise understanding of sleep quality, breathing disturbances, and the severity of the condition.
To objectively evaluate treatment effectiveness, the sleep study may be performed both before and after treatment with a Somnotech device. This allows clinicians to measure improvement accurately and ensures that treatment is delivering meaningful clinical outcomes.
This evidence-based approach helps guide personalised treatment decisions and track progress using measurable data rather than symptoms alone.
Is the AeroGrip NAP Device suitable for everyone with sleep apnea?
The AeroGrip NAP Device is most effective for patients with mild to severe obstructive sleep apnea and for habitual snorers. It is particularly well-suited to those who have tried CPAP and found it difficult to tolerate. A clinical assessment by a Sleep Apnea Specialist is required to confirm suitability.
How long does it take to get my device after the consultation?
Once dental measurements are taken, your AeroGrip NAP device is customised and ready within seven to eight working days.
Will the device feel uncomfortable?
Most patients adapt to the AeroGrip NAP Device quickly. Because it does not insert into the nasal passages or use pressurised airflow, many patients find it far more comfortable than CPAP. The sensation is comparable to holding a pacifier, gentler, and non-intrusive.
What is CPAP and why do some patients struggle with it?
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) delivers a constant flow of pressurised air through a mask worn over the nose or mouth. While highly effective, the mask, the air pressure, and the equipment can feel claustrophobic, dry, and uncomfortable, particularly during travel or for those who sleep on their side. Long-term adherence is a recognised challenge with CPAP therapy.
Can children be treated at Somnotech Sleep Clinic?
Yes. We treat sleep disorders in children, including obstructive sleep apnea caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Dr. Hrushikesh Vaidya takes an ENT-led approach for younger patients and early intervention can make a significant difference to a child's health, learning, and behaviour.
What is an AHI score and what does it mean?
AHI stands for Apnea-Hypopnea Index. It measures the average number of breathing pauses per hour of sleep. An AHI of fewer than 5 is considered normal; 5 to 14 is mild; 15 to 29 is moderate; and 30 or above is severe. Somnotech tailors Sleep Apnea Treatment according to your AHI before and after treatment to provide objective evidence of improvement.
What is your money-back guarantee?
If your second sleep study does not show at least a 50% improvement in AHI after treatment with your Somnotech devices, you can return your devices and we will refund the device cost in full.
We believe treatment should deliver measurable results, and our guarantee reflects our commitment to evidence-based, patient-centred care.
Can I use the AeroGrip devices if I travel frequently?
Yes. The AeroGrip NAP Device is compact, lightweight, and requires no electricity or batteries, making it an ideal travel companion. Several of our patients have specifically chosen it as a portable alternative to CPAP for use while travelling abroad.
Is the AeroGrip Neck Collar enough on its own?
The AeroGrip Neck Collar works well for patients with positional sleep apnea and mild OSA. For moderate OSA or more significant snoring, it is often combined with the AeroGrip NAP Device for a stronger combined effect. The experts will recommend the most appropriate combination for your specific case.
How soon will I see results?
Many patients notice reduced snoring and improved sleep quality from the very first night. Objective improvement in AHI can be confirmed through a follow-up sleep study, typically conducted within two to four weeks of starting treatment.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book online via our website, by calling our clinic directly, or by completing the contact form on our contact page. Initial consultations are typically available within a short turnaround, and our team will help you find a time that suits your schedule for Snoring Treatment or other sleep-related concerns.