Hypersomnia

Hypersomnia is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and prolonged sleep duration, which can substantially interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.

Symptoms

Excessive daytime sleepiness
Difficulty waking up in the morning
Unrefreshing or non-restorative sleep
Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
Memory problems
Anxiety or irritability
Low energy or fatigue
Slow thinking or speech

Types of Hypersomnia

Hypersomnia can be categorized into various types based on the underlying causes and specific symptoms:

Idiopathic Hypersomnia

This type of hypersomnia is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness without a known cause. It typically starts during adolescence or early adulthood and persists throughout life.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that causes overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden sleep attacks. It is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness or paralysis) and hallucinations.

Kleine-Levin Syndrome

Kleine-Levin syndrome is a rare neurological disorder marked by recurrent episodes of excessive sleepiness, lasting for days or even weeks. During these episodes, individuals may also experience changes in behavior, increased appetite, and hypersexuality.

Causes

The exact causes of hypersomnia are not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to its development:

Genetic predisposition
Brain injuries or abnormalities
Medical conditions (e.g., sleep apnea, obesity, depression)
Certain medications or substances
Sleep disorders
Hormonal imbalances

Treatment

Treatment for hypersomnia aims to improve wakefulness, reduce excessive sleepiness, and manage the underlying cause. It may involve a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and therapy: