Beyond just feeling tired, Hypersomnias are a group of sleep disorders that cause severe, debilitating daytime sleepiness, even after a full night’s sleep. If you struggle to stay awake during the day, fall asleep unintentionally, or feel like your sleep is never restorative, Premier Lung & Sleep Institute in Tomball, TX, offers the expertise to diagnose and treat the root cause. Our sleep specialist, Dr. Harneet Singh, will provide a thorough evaluation and discuss treatment options to help you regain alertness and improve your quality of life.
Request an AppointmentUnderstanding Hypersomnias
Hypersomnias, such as Idiopathic Hypersomnia and Narcolepsy, are neurological disorders that interfere with the brain’s ability to regulate sleep and wakefulness. This leads to a persistent, overwhelming urge to sleep during the day, regardless of how much sleep you get at night. Unlike simple sleep deprivation, this extreme sleepiness can be a symptom of a deeper medical issue that needs to be properly diagnosed and managed.
Our Diagnostic and Treatment
Approach To accurately diagnose hypersomnia, we will first rule out other sleep disorders with a polysomnography (sleep study) and a multiple sleep latency test (MSLT). The MSLT will measure how quickly you fall asleep and will help us differentiate between different types of hypersomnias. Your treatment plan will be customized based on your specific diagnosis. This may include a combination of medications to promote wakefulness, a focus on strict sleep hygiene, and behavioral therapy.
Get the Energy You Need to Thrive
Excessive daytime sleepiness can be a major barrier to living a fulfilling life. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the right solution to manage your symptoms so you can be more productive, alert, and engaged.
Schedule a consultation today to begin your journey toward better health and more energy.
FAQs About Hypersomnias
Q: What is the difference between hypersomnia and simple tiredness?
A: The main difference is the severity and duration. Simple tiredness is a temporary state caused by lack of sleep. Hypersomnia is a chronic condition where you feel excessively sleepy even after getting a full night’s sleep. The sleepiness is often so severe it interferes with your work, school, and social life.
Q: What is Idiopathic Hypersomnia?
A: Idiopathic Hypersomnia is a type of hypersomnia that has no known cause. The primary symptom is a chronic, overwhelming need to sleep during the day. Unlike narcolepsy, a person with idiopathic hypersomnia does not experience cataplexy or other classic narcolepsy symptoms, and their daytime naps are not refreshing.
Q: What is the main treatment for hypersomnia?
A: The primary treatment for hypersomnia is medication to promote wakefulness. Additionally, a strict and regular sleep schedule is crucial. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening, can also help.