Procedures used in diagnosis

A detailed general medical history with an emphasis on sleep-related symptoms is always performed. Sometimes this may be all that is needed for a diagnosis.

• A physical exam is often necessary
• Special X-rays and blood studies may be ordered after the office evaluation
• A polysomnographic test is sometimes performed. This procedure consists of simultaneously recording several body functions while the patient sleeps. Brain wave activity, breathing patterns, heart rhythm and level of oxygen in the blood are some of the body functions monitored in the laboratory.