If you are always feeling tired because of having too much or not enough sleep, you may be suffering from hypersomnia, or sleepiness. It is a common disorder, with nearly one in every twenty people being affected. If sufferers do not get proper treatment, there is a possibility that they could fall asleep at any moment. This could be very dangerous, even fatal, if the sufferer is at work or driving when it happens. As with all sleep disorders, hypersomnia could be the catalyst that triggers many other health problems.
Hypersomnia, or sleepiness, falls into two categories: recurring and idiopathic. Recurring hypersomnia is when the sufferer has periods of excessive daytime sleepiness lasting between one and ten days, and this repeats itself over periods of a year or more. The person will go through extended periods during which they do not show any signs of having the problem at all. Sufferers of idiopathic hypersomnia are not quite so lucky as they are affected by excessive sleepiness nearly all of the time.
Managing the problem of excessive sleepiness may mean readjusting your lifestyle, which in itself greatly affects the quality of sleep we get. Just by reducing the quantity of caffeine, alcohol and similar stimulants you consume should help you by allowing you to fall asleep easier and stay sleeping for longer. If you can get yourself into a regular sleep pattern and stick with it, even through the weekends and holidays ,you will find your alertness throughout the day improves. If you have a more serious case of this form of hypersomnia, your doctor may prescribe drugs, some form of amphetamine, to reduce your sleepiness throughout the day. However, some of the medication that is used to combat this disorder can cause side effects, so inform your doctor if you do experience any.
Excessive sleeping is likely to have an impact on your health and and also quality of life, so it is very important that you consult your doctor if you even suspect that you may be suffering from a sleep disorder. Idiopathic hypersomnia must be treated as soon as possible to prevent any serious consequences. There are certain centres that offer great medical care and support, so the disorder does not stop you from taking part in the activities that you enjoy.