Treatment

Quick facts

Korean name: 수면무호흡 치료 (양압기)
Procedure time: One overnight stay of about 8 to 10 hours
Anesthesia: None
Sessions: 1 diagnostic night; sometimes a second CPAP titration night
Downtime: None
Results: Report within about 1 week; CPAP improves sleepiness within days to weeks
Lasts: CPAP works only while used nightly
Typical price: ₩110,000–₩145,000 (patient share for polysomnography with Korean National Health Insurance (uninsured visitors pay several times more))

What is Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and CPAP?

Obstructive sleep apnea causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, loud snoring and daytime sleepiness. Several ENT and sleep clinics in Gangnam have overnight sleep labs.

For people with Korean health insurance, polysomnography and CPAP rental have been covered since 2018, which keeps costs low.

How it works

You sleep one night at the clinic wired to sensors for brain waves, breathing, oxygen, heart rhythm and leg movement. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) grades severity: 5 to 15 mild, 15 to 30 moderate, over 30 severe. CPAP is the standard treatment for moderate to severe cases. Mild cases may use a mandibular advancement device. ENT doctors also examine the nose and throat to judge whether surgery could help.

Who it suits

Loud snoring with witnessed pauses in breathing
Daytime sleepiness or morning headaches
High blood pressure that is hard to control
People who want a sleep study and CPAP fitting during a longer stay

Who should skip it or wait

Insomnia without snoring or breathing symptoms (different workup)
Visitors who cannot stay overnight for the study

Side effects and risks

Mask discomfort, dry mouth or nasal congestion with CPAP
Skin marks from the mask
Low adherence if fit or pressure is wrong

Aftercare

Use CPAP at least 4 hours every night
Clean the mask and tubing regularly
Return for a pressure check after the first month
Avoid alcohol and sedatives before sleep

Planning around your trip

Ask for the full sleep study report and CPAP pressure settings in English so a clinic at home can set up your own device.

ENT clinics near Apgujeong

Sori ENT Clinic (소리이비인후과의원)
ENT, 8 min walk from Cheongdam Station
Mirae ENT Clinic (미래이비인후과의원)
ENT, 7 min walk from Apgujeong Station
Yesong ENT Clinic (예송이비인후과의원)
ENT, 13 min walk from Cheongdam Station

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and CPAP questions

Can I do a home sleep test instead of staying overnight?

Some clinics offer home sleep apnea testing, which measures breathing and oxygen but not sleep stages. It suits people with typical symptoms; the lab study is more complete.

What does AHI mean on my report?

The apnea-hypopnea index counts breathing pauses and shallow breaths per hour. Under 5 is normal, 5 to 15 mild, 15 to 30 moderate, over 30 severe.

Can I buy a CPAP machine to take home?

Yes. Clinics and suppliers sell ResMed and Philips devices. Keep the pressure settings and check voltage and plug type for your country.

Is CPAP rental covered for foreigners?

Rental coverage applies to people enrolled in Korean National Health Insurance after a qualifying sleep study. Short-term visitors usually buy a device instead.

Will losing weight cure my sleep apnea?

Weight loss can reduce severity significantly, and sometimes resolves mild cases. Many people still need CPAP or other treatment.

What should I bring to the overnight sleep study?

Pajamas, your usual evening medicines and toiletries. Avoid caffeine after noon and skip naps that day so you sleep normally in the lab.

Questions before you visit?

Wellness · 수면무호흡 치료 (양압기)

Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and CPAP in Gangnam