Hypersomnia definition

Oversleeping may appear harmless but medically it’s termed as a sleeping disorder. It’s not very easy to diagnose since it s a common misconception among people that the only sleeping disorder is insomnia. This doesn’t however mean that people who take naps in the afternoon have Hypersomnia. Individuals who suffer from Hypersomnia struggle to stay awake. They sleep through the entire night and still feelvery sleepy during the day. Hypersomnia is thus a condition characterized by prolonged sleep.

Hypersomnia definition

Narcolepsy is a condition experienced by people who have Hypersomnia. Narcolepsy is serious and can be dangerous because not being in a position to control your sleep can cause accidents when driving and even cooking. The thought of someone sleeping when cooking sounds absurd or even laughable; however, it’s very real and cause serious injuries. There are also cases where people doze off when having a conversation and they snap back without realizing that they fell asleep. Sleepiness is not the only side effect of Hypersomnia.  Individuals who suffer from this condition experience: hallucinations, memory loss, poor appetite, general body weakness, fatigue and speech problems. Their social life is also negatively impacted because they cannot interact with people because they are always sleepy and tired. This may in turn lead to depression due to seclusion. Hypersomnic people also tend to over eat and this is seen as a way of dealing with the stress.

Causes of Hypersomnia. 

Excess sleeping can be caused by drug and alcohol abuse. People under the influence of alcohol lose track of time and spend a lot of their time in bed. Neurologic conditions such as traumas, tumors and head injuries are a major cause of insomnia. Certain medications can also aggravate Hypersomnia, for instance if one takes drugs and then stops abruptly. Disorders such as epilepsy, sclerosis and obesity can cause Hypersomnia. Experts have also found out that Hypersomnia can be genetic. Generally the condition is more common among people who are aged between 20 and 30.

How to minimize the effects of Hypersomnia.  

The first step you should take is to seek medical attention. It’s very important that you commence treatment immediately. Hypersomnia can have rippling effects and if treated early it can reduce the chances of other ailments coming up. Obese patients should exercise to lose weight. They should not go for speedy diets as this will create hunger pangs and make them eat more which will further aggravate the sleeping disorder. Patients should stop consuming caffeine and alcohol in large amounts. Hypersomnia is not fatal and there is no cause for alarm or panic, if well managed the sleeping disorder will disappear with time. If you are suffering from the condition ensure that you always someone close to you. You shouldn’t drive on your own. It’s also important to go for therapy and meet other people who suffer from the condition. Staying secluded will increase your chances of getting depressed.