How is it Diagnosed?
Diagnosing sleep disorders begins with a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s
sleep patterns, medical history, lifestyle, and associated symptoms such as snoring,
daytime fatigue, insomnia, or frequent awakenings. A detailed sleep history is often
recorded through a sleep diary over 1–2 weeks to track sleep and wake times, naps, and
quality of sleep. Physicians may also use validated questionnaires, such as the Epworth
Sleepiness Scale or the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.
Polysomnography (PSG), or overnight sleep study, is the gold standard for diagnosing
conditions like sleep apnea, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome, and REM behavior
disorders. It records brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, breathing, and limb
movements during sleep. In some cases, a home sleep apnea test may be recommended
as a simpler, portable alternative to lab-based PSG.
Actigraphy, which involves wearing a device like a wristwatch to track movement and
circadian rhythms, is useful in diagnosing circadian rhythm disorders and insomnia.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) helps assess excessive daytime sleepiness and is
often used in narcolepsy evaluations. Blood tests or imaging may be advised to rule out
underlying causes such as thyroid dysfunction or neurological conditions.
Collaboration with sleep specialists, neurologists, psychiatrists, or pulmonologists may
be necessary depending on the suspected disorder. Accurate diagnosis often requires a
multidisciplinary approach, as sleep disorders can stem from medical, psychological, or
lifestyle-related factors.