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Insomnia - Exams and Tests
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Insomnia is not a disease, and no specific test can diagnose it. But it can make you feel bad, and it can affect your health. It can also be a sign of other problems. Your doctor may want to do blood tests to rule out certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems. "Normal sleep" differs for each person. Checking your health and sleep history is an important first step to finding a cause for poor-quality sleep. Talk with your doctor about your medical history and any medical problems you have or any medicines you are taking.
- Your doctor can learn a lot about your
insomnia and its causes by reviewing your
sleep history. He or she may also ask you to keep a
sleep diary
(What is a PDF document?) for 1 or 2 weeks to track your sleep
patterns and habits. Your sleep diary can help your doctor spot certain habits
that may affect your sleep, or even see signs of a hidden health problem that
may need to be checked out. - If your symptoms point to mental health concerns, such as depression or anxiety, you may be referred to a mental health professional.
Sleep studies
If your doctor thinks that you have a sleep disorder, he or she may refer you for a sleep study. When you have a sleep study, you stay overnight in a special sleep lab.
Your doctor may recommend a sleep study if your insomnia seems to be caused by breathing problems (such as sleep apnea) or periodic limb movement disorder, or if you have tried other treatment that hasn't worked.
Sleep studies are not helpful for insomnia caused by mental health problems, fibromyalgia, or chronic fatigue syndrome.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: April 27, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine Jan Ulfberg - Sleep Medicine | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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