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Excessive sleepiness, also known as hypersomnolence, is a common symptom of chronic sleep deprivation. The majority of cases of excessive sleepiness are caused by insufficient or interrupted sleep, but some people’s extreme tiredness persists even after adequate rest. While persistent hypersomnolence is not a disorder in and of itself, it may be a symptom of a sleep disorder such as insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), or hypersomnia. Hypersomnia and its associated symptoms can impair the quality of life and lead to other health problems.

What exactly is hypersomnia?

Hypersomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by episodes of excessive sleepiness. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is a reliable source (NINDS). NINDS seeks fundamental knowledge about the brain and nervous system in order to reduce the burden of neurological disease. Or a lack of sleep at night. Hypersomnolence is not a disorder in and of itself, but rather a symptom of hypersomnia.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) is a non-profit organization that sets standards and promotes excellence in sleep medicine health care, education, and research. Hypersomnia is a distinct sleep disorder that cannot be caused by other conditions that cause chronic hypersomnolence, such as narcolepsy.

People suffering from hypersomnia frequently have a strong desire to rest or nap during the day at inconvenient times, such as at work or school, in the middle of a social obligation, or while conversing with others. Irritability, decreased alertness, increased anxiety, and difficulty concentrating are also symptoms. These symptoms may have a negative impact on a person’s professional or personal life.

Autonomic nervous system dysregulation, excessive alcohol or drug use, and certain medications are all potential causes of hypersomnia. Tumors, head injuries, multiple sclerosis, encephalitis, and epilepsy are all medical conditions that may contribute to the development of hypersomnia.

Central hypersomnolence disorders

While some cases of hypersomnolence are caused by poor sleep hygiene or lifestyle choices, it can also be a sign of a sleep disorder. Each sleep disorder is unique, with unique causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy type 1 is a long-term neurological disorder caused by a lack of the neurotransmitter orexin. One symptom of narcolepsy type 1 is hypersomnolence; other symptoms include cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness), sleep paralysis, and hallucinations.

Many of the symptoms of narcolepsy type 2 are similar to those of type 1, but they may be less severe. Cataplexy is not a symptom of narcolepsy type 2 and is not caused by a lack of orexin.

Kleine-Levin Disease

Kleine-Levin syndrome is distinguished by recurrent bouts of extreme somnolence. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is a reliable source (NINDS). NINDS seeks fundamental knowledge about the brain and nervous system in order to reduce the burden of neurological disease.

that occur alongside mental, behavioral, and even psychiatric disturbances. This condition primarily affects young males, and episodes usually subside after 8 to 12 years.

Hypersomnia As a result of medication or substances

Hypersomnia can be caused by sedative medications, alcohol, and narcotic drugs. Hypersomnia can also be a symptom of stimulant or medication withdrawal.

Hypersomnia caused by a psychiatric disorder

Many mood disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder, can cause hypersomnia.

Inadequate Sleep Syndrome

Insufficient sleep syndrome, perhaps the most obvious cause of hypersomnia, occurs when a person consistently fails to get enough sleep. Poor sleep hygiene or nightshift work may prevent a person from getting enough sleep.

Idiopathic Insomnia

Idiopathic hypersomnia may be diagnosed if a patient has excessive sleepiness without cataplexy that is not relieved by naps or sleep.

Treatment and Diagnosis

Consult a doctor if your hypersomnolence is interfering with your quality of life. Identifying the sources of your symptoms can help you decide which treatments will be most effective for you. Sleep specialists can use a variety of tools to diagnose hypersomnia.

Perform a sleep study: A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is a test performed by sleep specialists to detect signs of sleep disorders and rule out other conditions such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea.

Complete a multiple sleep latency test (MSLT): A multiple sleep latency test (MSLT), also known as a nap study, can be used to measure a person’s level of sleepiness throughout the day. An MSLT provides the patient with five opportunities to nap while measuring the time it takes them to fall asleep. People who have hypersomnia may fall asleep faster than those who do not have the condition.

Make use of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale: The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a questionnaire that is used to assess a patient’s sleepiness. The test presents eight hypothetical situations and asks the patient to rate their likelihood of falling asleep in each on a scale of 0 (unlikely) to 3 (likely) (very likely). The responses of the patients are then tallied and used to diagnose excessive sleepiness. Keep a sleep journal: Your doctor may advise you to keep a sleep diary to track the frequency of symptoms and the quality of your sleep.

The FDA recently approved a prescription drug to treat idiopathic hypersomnia. The National Biotechnology Center By providing access to biomedical and genomic information, information advances science and health. The medication has also been used to treat narcolepsy-related cataplexy. Some doctors will prescribe off-label drugs, such as stimulants, to treat the symptoms of excessive sleepiness. Discuss potential pharmaceutical treatments for hypersomnia and other sleep disorders with your doctor.

How to Deal with Hypersomnia

While there is no cure for hypersomnia, there are several ways to manage the disorder’s symptoms.

Maintain a sleep routine: Try waking up and going to bed at the same time every day, even on weekends. Check that you are getting enough sleep for your age and lifestyle. A sleep calculator can help you determine how much sleep you need.
Reduce your intake of alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can have a negative impact on your sleep quality. Avoid drinking alcohol in the hours before going to bed, and limit caffeine intake after 3 p.m.
Make your sleeping environment peaceful: a cool, quiet bedroom free of blue light emitted by electronic devices can promote restful sleep and prevent morning drowsiness.
Avoid risky activities: It is critical to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while fatigued.