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Some sleep disorders may not be diagnosed for years. People may not realize that their symptoms can be attributed to a sleep disorder. A physical examination will be performed to determine if there is a medical cause for the problem. A medical history, which may include the patient's medications and a psychiatric history, will also be taken. Patients may be given a neurological examination if a neurological cause is suspected.

Patients may be asked questions regarding sleep patterns and symptoms experienced during waking hours. Family members or sleep partners may be asked to describe sleep patterns and behavior of patients. Patients may also be asked questions regarding lifestyle habits, such as smoking or the use of alcohol or caffeine. A sleep diary detailing sleep times and patterns may help discussions with a physician or sleep specialist.

Sleep disorders can sometimes be diagnosed by identifying medications, medical or neurological conditions, psychiatric disorders or other factors that may be causing sleep problems. In other cases, patients may be referred to a sleep center where sleep patterns are analyzed in depth by health professionals who specialize in sleep disorders. Common tests that are performed to diagnose sleep disorders include:

• Sleep questionnaire. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale uses questions to measure the likelihood of dozing in certain circumstances, such as while sitting and reading.
  
  
• Polysomnogram (sleep study). Painless test conducted overnight while patients are sleeping. Electrodes placed on the face and scalp before sleep monitor electrical activity of the brain (electroencephalogram), heart (electrocardiogram), movements of the muscles (electromyogram) and eye movements (electro-oculogram). These are measured as patients move through the different stages of sleep.
  
  
• Multiple sleep latency test (MSLT). Conducted in a similar method as a polysomnogram, but performed during daytime hours. This test is conducted when patients are asked to nap during the day. It may be used to diagnose narcolepsy by determining how quickly a person falls asleep during regular waking hours.
  
  
• Repeated test of sustained wakefulness (RTSW). This test measures how long it takes to fall asleep by challenging the ability to stay awake. During the test, patients are placed in a quiet room with dim lighting and asked to stay awake. It is also used to diagnose narcolepsy.