Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is an uncontrollable urge to sleep during the day, caused by various sleep disorders, medical conditions, stress, medications, injuries, or substance abuse. Diagnosis involves sleep study tests, and treatment includes medication and lifestyle changes.
Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is an irresistible urge to sleep during the day. People with this condition can become so sleepy that they have difficulty engaging in any activity during the day due to excessive sleepiness. A person with this condition may suddenly fall asleep without warning. The individual may take repeated naps for short or long periods of time. In general, individuals with this condition have no control over their desire to sleep.
The causes of excessive daytime sleepiness can be attributed to various sleep disorders. In many cases, excessive daytime sleepiness may be due to insomnia or an inability to fall or stay asleep during the night. Another example of a sleep disorder is narcolepsy. This sleep disorder can cause excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks, in which the person suddenly falls asleep. Sleep apnea, which causes breathing interruptions during sleep, can also cause this condition.
Excessive daytime sleepiness can also be a symptom of a medical condition. For example, people with urinary problems may be excessively sleepy during the day if they get up several times during the night to use the bathroom. Worry and stress can also cause this condition. Stress can impact every aspect of a person’s life, including the ability to sleep. Other causes may include medications, lingering injuries, and alcohol or drug abuse.
Typically, the most obvious symptom of this condition is the overwhelming urge to sleep during the day. This may result in the need to take several naps throughout the day or in the afternoon. Additional symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness can include a lack of alertness and a lack of energy. Some people will look quite tired even after a normal night’s sleep. Often times, the overwhelming need to sleep can cause a disruption to the normal pattern of daily activities.
Several tests can be performed to diagnose a case of this sleep disorder. One or more sleep study tests will commonly be performed on an individual with this condition. Testing can be completed at an inpatient or outpatient sleep study clinic. Many people will have a polysomnogram performed. This test involves attaching sensors to the skin to record brain activity during sleep.
Treatment for this condition is best prescribed by a doctor who specializes in sleep disorders. Some patients may be better served by using more than one method of treatment. Frequently, stimulant medications can be used to treat the condition. These types of medications will help with alertness and staying awake.
Patients may also be advised to make some lifestyle changes to reduce the urge to sleep during the day. It can help you avoid nicotine, excessive caffeine and alcohol. It will also be helpful to stick to a nightly sleep schedule. Individuals with excessive daytime sleepiness should avoid engaging in activities that could injure themselves or others. Driving is an activity that should be performed with caution for people with the condition.
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