How is sleepwalking diagnosed by a doctor?

Sleepwalking, a type of parasomnia, is diagnosed by doctors through a careful evaluation of your sleep and medical history. They may ask questions about your sleep patterns, any unusual behaviors during sleep, and whether you have any family history of sleep disorders.

Steps in Diagnosis:

1. Medical History: Doctors will ask about your sleep habits and any other health issues you might have. This helps them understand if there are underlying conditions related to sleepwalking.
2. Sleep Diary: You might be asked to keep a sleep diary for a couple of weeks. This helps track when you go to bed, when you wake up, and any sleepwalking episodes.
3. Polysomnography: In some cases, a sleep study called polysomnography may be recommended. This test records your brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing while you sleep, helping to identify any sleep disorders.

It is important to provide as much detail as possible during the evaluation to help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis. If you or someone you know is experiencing sleepwalking, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional for further guidance.