Sleep Disorders

Narcolepsy

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Diagnosis

To diagnose narcolepsy, your doctor will conduct a physical examination and ask about your medical history and symptoms. In addition, a number of tests are available to assist the diagnosis of narcolepsy:

• Polysomnogram tests in an overnight sleep laboratory measure brain waves and body movements as well as your nerve and muscle function.

• Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) measures the time it takes you to fall asleep and move into a deep sleep while taking several naps over a period of time.

• Genetic blood tests check for specific antigens often found in people who have a genetic predisposition to narcolepsy.

Please see Overnight Sleep Study to learn more.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated November 4, 2007