Sleeping Disorders

Hypersomnia

Hypersomnia is an excessive amount of sleepiness, resulting in an inability to stay awake.
Even though hypersomniacs sleep more than is considered necessary (or even healthy) at night, they may still need to take frequent naps during the day.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Hypersomnia are simply excessive sleepiness.

Causes

Hypersomnia can be caused by a range of factors, such as:
· Being overweight
· Heredity / Family History
· Brain damage
· Depression

Diagnosis

A person is considered to have hypersomnia if they sleep more than 10 hours per day on a regular basis for at least two weeks.

Complications / Issues

People who are overweight are more likely than others to suffer from hypersomnia, and this can often exacerbate their weight problems as their excessive sleep patterns mean they will use up less energy (burn less calories), making it even harder for them to lose weight.

Treatment

Hypersomnia can be treated with stimulants, such as Modafinil.

Prevention

The best way to prevent the onset of the symptoms and complications of Hypersomnia is for the sufferer to maintain a healthy weight, and, if they suffer from depression, seek medical help to treat the depression.

Insomnia