Excessive daytime sleepiness is a common disorder that affects up to 1/5 of the population. It is characterized by overwhelming fatigue and drowsiness during the daytime, despite a whole night's sleep.
The condition can significantly impact the quality of life, causing impairments in work performance, social functioning, and overall quality of life. Many potential causes of excessive daytime sleepiness include sleep deprivation, disorders, medications, and underlying medical conditions. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for excessive daytime sleepiness that can help improve quality of life. The most common causes of excessive daytime sleepiness are:
Sleep deprivation is by far the most common cause of excessive daytime sleepiness. Doctors recommend that an adult get 7-8 hours of sleep per night, but many people do not get this much. The average American sleeps less than 7 hours per night. Not getting enough sleep at night can lead to fatigue and make it difficult to focus during the day. Sleep deprivation can be caused by poor sleep habits, such as staying late to watch television or working long hours. If you think you might be sleep-deprived, try going to bed earlier and setting a regular sleep schedule.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes breathing to stop and repeatedly start during sleep. This can lead to fragmented sleep and make it difficult to get a whole night's rest. Sleep apnea is a common condition, affecting an estimated 18 million Americans. It is more common in people who are overweight, have high blood pressure, or have family members with the condition.
Sleep apnea could present as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or central sleep apnea (CSA). OSA is the more common type and is caused by an airway blockage, such as obesity. CSA is less common and caused by central nervous system problems.
Treatment for sleep apnea often includes using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine at night. Stimulant medications like armodafinil and modafinil can relieve sleepiness. Oral appliance therapy is another option that can be considered: a mouthguard-like device that helps keep the airway open. Surgery is rarely needed but may be an option if other treatments fail.
Narcolepsy is a rare sleep disorder characterized by sudden and irresistible bouts of sleep during the daytime. These "sleep attacks" can last a few seconds to several minutes. Narcolepsy can also cause other symptoms, such as sleep paralysis and hallucinations. The exact cause of narcolepsy is unknown, but it is thought to be associated with problems with the brain's ability to regulate sleep.
At night, narcolepsy can cause fragmented sleep and make it difficult to get a whole night's rest. The condition can be disruptive to daily life, as sleep attacks can occur anytime, without warning.
Stimulants and antidepressants help control narcolepsy by regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Other treatments include scheduled naps, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and practicing good sleep habits.
When people are depressed, they may not be able to sleep at night or may wake up early in the morning. This can lead to fatigue and make it difficult to function during the day. Depression is a common condition that affects an estimated 16 million American adults. It is more common in women and people over the age of 60.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, mood-stabilizing anticonvulsants, exercise, and diet changes are common treatments for depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy targets negative thinking patterns and can help people learn how to manage their emotions better.
Medications like sedatives, antidepressants, antihistamines, antiemetics, and antipsychotics can cause excessive daytime sleepiness. They work by depressing the central nervous system, making it difficult to stay awake during the day. Such medications should be used cautiously and only as directed by a doctor.
Treatment for excessive daytime sleepiness caused by medications typically involves adjusting the dose or switching to a different medication. However, before you do that, talk to your doctor to ensure it is safe.
Having poor sleep habits can also contribute to excessive daytime sleepiness. Things like drinking caffeine before bed, working late into the night, or watching television in bed can all disrupt your sleep and lead to fatigue during the day.
If you have poor sleep habits, try changing your nightly routine to see if it helps. Also, avoid watching television or working on the computer in bed. Ensure that your bedroom is dark and quiet to promote relaxation.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs. It is often accompanied by a tingling or burning sensation in the legs. It is more common in women and people over the age of 50. RLS can make it difficult to sleep at night, which can lead to fatigue during the day.
Treatment for RLS often includes taking medications to relieve symptoms and making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding caffeine and exercising regularly. Opiates, Benzodiazepines anti-seizure, and anti-parkinsonian drugs are also used to treat RLS. Besides, vitamin B12 and iron supplements can also help.
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