How are sleep disorders diagnosed. Upon going to see the doctor, he/she will conduct a general physical exam before using specialized tests specific to the patient’s symptoms. Blood tests can reveal any abnormalities or genetic conditions that might be impacting sleep. Most often, the doctor will recommend that a patient undergo a sleep study, such as a polysomnography, which evaluates a person’s oxygen levels, bodily movements, and brain activity. These tests will allow the doctor to determine how these activities are impacting the patient’s sleep. An electroencephalogram, which assesses electrical activity in the brain, may also be used to detect problems. The test, or combination of tests, will be crucial for the doctor to make a correct recommendation on a course of treatment.
