What are the symptoms of hypersomnia?
People with excessive daytime sleepiness may experience:
- Feeling very sleepy during the day
- Struggling to stay awake in situations like work or school
- Finding it hard to concentrate
- Feeling confused or forgetful
- Napping during the day, often for long periods
- Feeling unrefreshed after a good night’s sleep
What causes hypersomnia?
There are several reasons why someone might experience excessive daytime sleepiness. Some common causes include:
- Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnoea or narcolepsy
- Medical conditions, like depression or diabetes
- Medications that cause drowsiness
- Not getting enough quality sleep due to lifestyle factors
How common is hypersomnia?
Hypersomnia is quite common. Many people may experience it at some point in their lives, especially if they don’t get enough sleep. It can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in teenagers and young adults.
Who is more likely to get hypersomnia?
Several factors can increase the chance of developing hypersomnia, including:
- Having a sleep disorder
- Being overweight or having obesity
- Living a sedentary lifestyle
- Taking certain medications
How can I treat hypersomnia?
Treatment for hypersomnia depends on the cause. Some common ways include:
- Improving sleep habits, such as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day
- Avoiding caffeine and large meals close to bedtime
- Getting regular exercise
- Speaking to a doctor about possible medications if sleep disorders are involved
Powered by pharmacies
With over 1,700 pharmacy partners across the UK, you can get the help you need, wherever you are based.
Our website and mobile app make it easy and convenient to manage your health needs and book services at a pharmacy nearby.
How to live with hypersomnia?
If someone experiences hypersomnia, there are ways to manage it. These include:
- Taking short naps when possible to recharge
- Creating a consistent sleep schedule
- Avoiding activities that require full attention, like driving, when feeling very sleepy
- Asking for support from family and friends
What’s the outlook for hypersomnia?
The outlook for people with hypersomnia varies. Many people can improve their symptoms with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. However, for others, it can be a long-term condition that requires ongoing management.
Final thoughts
Hypersomnia can impact daily life, but there are ways to manage it. If you have concerns about your sleepiness or sleep patterns, it is important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
