1. Describe the concern in plain language
Note what prompted the appointment: loud or persistent snoring, wakefulness, unrefreshing sleep, a partner's observations, daytime sleepiness, morning symptoms or another concern. Include when you first noticed it and whether it seems to repeat.
2. Keep a short sleep timeline
For a few typical nights, record approximate bedtime, waking time, remembered awakenings, naps and any missing recording time. Brief notes about travel, illness, alcohol, late caffeine, a changed routine or medication changes can help show context without assuming cause.
3. Include partner observations carefully
If someone shares your room, their factual observations can be useful: when snoring was heard, whether sleep was disrupted, and whether they noticed pauses, choking or gasping. These observations need professional assessment; they are not a diagnosis.
4. List your questions and relevant context
Write down what you want to understand, your relevant health history, current medicines and any existing reports or tests. Ask the clinician which information matters, what the next step is and whether any formal testing is appropriate.