Medical History
The first step in diagnosing Idiopathic Hypersomnia is to take a detailed medical history. The doctor will ask questions about your sleep patterns, including how much and how often you sleep. They will also inquire about any medications you are currently taking, as certain drugs can cause excessive sleepiness. It is important to provide accurate information about your sleep habits and any symptoms you may be experiencing.
Physical Examination
A physical examination is conducted to check for any physical signs or abnormalities that may indicate Idiopathic Hypersomnia or another underlying condition. The doctor will assess your overall health and look for any signs of medical conditions that could be causing your excessive sleepiness. They may check your blood pressure, heart rate, and perform a neurological examination to evaluate brain function. Additionally, they may ask you to undergo a sleep study to gather more objective data about your sleep patterns.
Sleep Study
A sleep study, also known as a polysomnography, is a comprehensive overnight test that measures various aspects of your sleep. During the sleep study, you will be monitored for brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, respiratory effort, and oxygen levels. This test helps identify any sleep disorders, including if you have Idiopathic Hypersomnia. It provides valuable information about the quality of your sleep, the presence of sleep disturbances, and the frequency of sleep cycles.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test
The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is a daytime sleep study that measures how quickly you fall asleep during scheduled naps. This test is used to evaluate your level of daytime sleepiness and to distinguish Idiopathic Hypersomnia from other sleep disorders. During the MSLT, you will be asked to take several short naps at specific intervals while being monitored for brain activity and sleep patterns. The results of this test help in determining the severity of your excessive sleepiness and the presence of abnormal sleep patterns.