hypersomnia : Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

What is Hypersomnia?

Hypersomnia is a condition in which you feel excessive sleepiness during the day. It may occur even after long stretches of sleep. Another name for hypersomnia is excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). Hypersomnia can be a primary condition or a secondary condition. Secondary hypersomnia is the result of another medical condition. People with hypersomnia have difficulty functioning during the day because they’re frequently tired, which can affect concentration and energy level.

What are the symptoms of Hypersomnia?

The main symptom of hypersomnia is constant tiredness. People with hypersomnia may take naps throughout the day without ever relieving drowsiness. They also have difficulty waking from long periods of sleep. Other symptoms of hypersomnia include:

• low energy
• irritability
• anxiety
• loss of appetite
• slow thinking or speech
• difficulty remembering
• restlessness

What are the causes of Hypersomnia?

There are several potential causes of hypersomnia, including:

• The sleep disorders narcolepsy (daytime sleepiness) and sleep apnea (interruptions of breathing during sleep) 
• Not getting enough sleep at night (sleep deprivation) 
• Being overweight 
• Drug or alcohol abuse 
• A head injury or a neurological disease, such as multiple sclerosis
• Prescription drugs, such as tranquilizers 
• Genetics (having a relative with hypersomnia)

To diagnose hypersomnia, a doctor will review your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam can test for alertness.

Doctors use several tests to diagnose hypersomnia, including:

• sleep diary: You record sleep and awake times through the night to track sleeping patterns.
• Epworth Sleepiness Scale: You rate your sleepiness to determine the severity of the condition.
• multiple sleep latency test: You take a monitored nap during the day. The test measures the types of sleep you experience.
• polysomnogram: You stay at a sleep center overnight. A machine monitors brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, oxygen levels, and breathing function.

What are treatments of Hypersomnia?

Treatments for this condition can vary, depending on the cause of your hypersomnia. Many drugs intended for narcolepsy can treat hypersomnia. These include amphetamine, methylphenidate, and modafinil. These drugs are stimulants that help you feel more awake.

Lifestyle changes are a critical part of the treatment process. A doctor may recommend getting on a regular sleeping schedule. Avoiding certain activities can also improve symptoms, especially around bedtime. Most people with hypersomnia shouldn’t drink alcohol or use drugs. A doctor may also recommend a high-nutrition diet to maintain energy levels naturally.