Excessive Daytime Sleepiness / Hypersomnia / Narcolepsy

Hypersomnia or Narcolepsy Specialist in Colorado

What is excessive daytime sleepiness?

Excessive daytime sleepiness or hypersomnia refers to a persistent feeling of drowsiness despite adequate or prolonged nighttime sleep. People with hypersomnia struggle to stay awake during the day and may take long naps without feeling refreshed. This can significantly impact daytime functioning, work, and social activities . It can be a symptom of various medical conditions including sleep apnea, narcolepsy, depression or medication side effects.

Symptoms:

 Feeling the need to nap frequently
 Falling asleep unintentionally during activities like watching TV or driving
 Difficulty waking in the morning
 Mood changes (irritability, depression, anxiety)
 Long sleep duration (more than 10-12 hours)
 Cognitive impairment (memory issues, trouble concentrating)
 Difficulty staying awake in meetings or class
 Feeling sluggish and tired even after adequate sleep or nap
 Automatic behaviors (performing tasks without awareness)

What are the types of hypersomnia?

Primary Hypersomnia

Narcolepsy type 1: sleep disorder with excessive sleepiness, abnormal REM or dream sleep patterns and sudden muscle weakness (cataplexy).
Narcolepsy type 2: similar to type 1 without cataplexy
Idiopathic Hypersomnia: excessive sleepiness with no known cause, not relieved by naps.

Secondary Hypersomnia

Caused by other medical conditions such as:

Sleep apnea
Depression or anxiety
Neurological disorders (e.g. Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis)
Head injuries or tumors
Medications (sedatives, antidepressants)
Substance abuse

How is excessive daytime sleepiness evaluated?


Medical history and physical examination

Home sleep study to rule out certain medical conditions

In lab sleep study

Multiple Sleep Latency test: measures how quickly you fall asleep in a quiet environment during the day.

Actigraphy: a wrist-worn device that tracks sleep patterns over time

Treatments Offered:

Lifestyle changes:

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals before bedtime, practice good sleep hygiene (dark quiet room, minimal screen time), and engage in regular physical activity

Cognitive behavioral therapy:

Help address sleep habits and potential emotional contributors.

Medications:

Stimulants: e.g. modafinil, armodafinil, methylphenidate, amphetamines
Wake promoting agents: e.g. Pitolisant, Solriamfetol
Anti-depressants (for hypersomnia secondary to mood disorders)

Underlying causes:

Treatment of underlying conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between narcolepsy and hypersomnia?

Hypersomnia refers to excessive daytime sleepiness but does not always include sleep attacks

Narcolepsy is a specific sleep disorder that includes excessive daytime sleepiness but also includes abnormalities in dream sleep and possibly cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness), sleep paralysis, and hallucinations when falling asleep or waking from sleep.

Is hypersomnia the same as being tired all the time?

No. Feeling tired occasionally is normal, but hypersomnia is a chronic condition where excessive sleepiness persists despite getting adequate sleep.

Can naps help in hypersomnia?

Unlike with narcolepsy, naps in hypersomnia usually do not make people feel refreshed

Is hypersomnia a disability?

In some cases, it can be considered a disability if it significantly impacts daily functioning and work. People with severe hypersomnia may qualify for accommodations or disability benefits.

Can diet and exercise help with hypersomnia?

A healthy diet and regular exercise can improve energy levels but does not cure hypersomnia. Managing sleep schedules and possible medications are often necessary.

How can I explain hypersomnia to others?

Hypersomnia is a neurological sleep disorder that causes extreme daytime sleepiness, no matter how much sleep a person gets. It is not just being lazy or tired—it is a medical condition.