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Published on: 11/20/2025
How does a sleep specialist diagnose REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)?
To diagnose REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), a sleep specialist uses a sleep study called a polysomnogram to observe unusual movements or behaviors during REM sleep.
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REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is diagnosed by a sleep specialist using a test called a polysomnogram.
Polysomnogram: This is an overnight test that records brain waves, the oxygen level in your blood, heart rate, and breathing, as well as eye and leg movements. It helps the doctor see if there are unusual movements during REM sleep, which is the dream phase of sleep.
Patient History: The doctor will also ask about your sleep habits and any unusual behaviors during sleep, like talking, shouting, or moving a lot.
Ruling Out Other Conditions: It's important to make sure that the symptoms are not caused by other sleep disorders or medical issues.
These steps help the sleep specialist understand if someone has RBD and how it might be affecting their sleep and daily life.
(References)
- Neikrug AB, & Ancoli-Israel S. (2012). Diagnostic tools for REM sleep behavior disorder. Sleep medicine reviews, 22169258.
- Rodriguez CL, Jaimchariyatam N, & Budur K. (2017). Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder: A Review .... Chest, 28322726.
- Antelmi E, Lippolis M, Biscarini F, Tinazzi M, & Plazzi G. (2021). REM sleep behavior disorder: Mimics and variants. Sleep medicine reviews, 34186416.
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