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NightOWL Mini

At 1 ounce, the NightOwl is the smallest home sleep apnea test on the market. The sensor itself is a small oval shape that is taped to the user’s finger for testing.

The Ectosense NightOwl uses a single fingertip sensor to record three metrics. Instead of being clipped to the user’s fingertip like most traditional designs, the NightOwl’s sensor is taped in place. It connects via Bluetooth with an app on the user’s phone to record and transmit the necessary data

Blood Oxygen Level:

When individuals briefly stop breathing during an apnea event, it causes lower blood oxygen levels, which the NightOwl’s sensor detects.

Heart Rate:

Apnea events have a noticeable effect on heart rate. The NightOwl looks for the signature pattern of a slowed heart rate followed by an increased heart rate that occurs during and after an apnea event.

Actigraphy (Body Movement):

The NightOwl is able to determine whether the user is asleep or awake by monitoring body movement.

AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index):

The NightOwl measures the AHI, or the number of apnea events divided by the number of hours slept. This number is used to help diagnose OSA and determine its severity.

NightOwl vs. In-Lab Sleep Studies

If you show symptoms of a sleep disorder other than OSA or if you have other health conditions that may require observation during sleep, your doctor may recommend an in-lab sleep study rather than a home sleep apnea test.

Some people who qualify for a home sleep apnea test may still prefer a sleep test conducted at a clinic. Many factors determine what type of test sleepers might choose, including cost, convenience, and accuracy.

NightOwl Benefits:

  • Easier to sleep normally due to the low-profile sensor design and being able to sleep in your own bed
  • Cost is significantly less than an in-lab sleep study
  • Does not require traveling, which may be a concern for people in rural areas

Limitations:

  • In-lab sleep tests may still be required if results are inconclusive or sleeper requires CPAP titration after diagnosis
  • Does not detect CSA or other sleep disorders
  • User error may negatively affect the test’s accuracy

In-Lab Sleep Study Benefits:

  • The most accurate form of sleep apnea testing
  • May detect sleep disorders other than OSA
  • Consolidates a number of potential tests that may need to be conducted, including CPAP titration

Limitations:

  • Sleeping can be difficult due to unfamiliar environment and number of sensors used for the study
  • Many rural or isolated areas do not have a sleep clinic
  • Costs significantly more than a home sleep apnea test

The Ectosense NightOwl uses a fingertip sensor to track three metrics, then synthesizes the data to create your AHI score. A Bluetooth connection sends the information to your phone, which your doctor receives and uses to determine your diagnosis.

The NightOwl is a rechargeable device that can conduct three nights of testing on one charge.

How to Use This Device

Setting up and using the NightOwl is a straightforward process, but following the provided instructions is crucial to ensure the test results are as accurate as possible.

Each purchase of the NightOwl includes a post-test video consultation session with a board-certified sleep specialist who discusses your results, reviews treatment options, and provides a prescription for treatment, if necessary.

Step 1:

The NightOwl Companion smartphone app, which is required to use the NightOwl, is available on Google Play and the Apple App Store. Once you have downloaded the app, you can authorize your device using a code that is sent via email after purchase.

Step 2:

After accepting the app’s terms and conditions, you will be asked to fill out your personal information. This step must be completed before testing.

Step 3:

To pair your NightOwl sensor with the app, push the button on the sensor until a red light flashes. This red light indicates that you can press the “start connecting” button on your app, which connects the two devices.

Step 4:

The NightOwl Companion app will walk you through attaching the sensor to your finger using the included adhesive strips. It is important to avoid wrapping the adhesive strips too tightly, as this may lead to inaccurate readings.

Step 5:

Before you fall asleep, press start on the NightOwl Companion app. In the morning, press stop upon waking. You will be asked to provide information about how you slept before submitting your data.

Sleep Data Results and Diagnosis

The NightOwl Companion app sends your data to your doctor after you press submit. Users receive their sleep report via email two to four business days after testing. Users can also opt to pay an additional fee for expedited results that are delivered within one business day.

After testing, users schedule a video call consultation with a board-certified sleep doctor. The doctor discusses your NightOwl results and walks you through treatment options if you receive an OSA diagnosis. If treatment is necessary, the doctor can also provide you with a prescription.