Questions Your Healthcare Provider May Ask

In discussing your sleep problems, your healthcare provider may ask you many of the questions below. Review this list before your appointment — you’ll be setting the stage for a more helpful, productive consultation.

• Which of the following best describes your sleep problems — trouble falling asleep, waking in the middle of the night, or waking up earlier than you would like to?
  
  
• How do you typically feel when you wake up in the morning — very refreshed, somewhat refreshed, or fatigued?
  
  
• Overall, how often do you have trouble getting a good night’s sleep? Is it every night, several nights a week, once a week, once a month, or several times a year?
  
  
• How would you characterize your sleep problem — mild, moderate, or severe?
  
  
• How long have you had this sleep problem?
  
  
• Has your bed partner noticed anything unusual about your sleep? (Your partner may witness behaviors you aren’t aware of, such as snoring or brief awakenings.)
  
  
• Have you had any recent changes in your life? Have you had any recent illnesses?
  
  
• Are you currently being treated for another health problem? Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking.
  
  
• What other steps have you taken to try to improve your sleep?
  
  
• What medications, if any, have you taken in the past to help you sleep? (Include both prescription and nonprescription medications.)
  
  
• How did you respond to the medications that you have taken?