Hypersomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness — where individuals feel a persistent need to sleep or experience prolonged periods of sleep, often exceeding ten hours a day. This condition can significantly impair daily functioning, affecting concentration, memory, and overall productivity.
If you struggle to stay awake during the day, call a sleep specialist like Dr. Saema Tahir, M.D. for a consultation. We commonly treat hypersomnia and can map out a personalized plan to help you feel rested at night and energetic throughout the day.
Unlike occasional tiredness, hypersomnia is often chronic and can occur even after seemingly sufficient nighttime sleep. Individuals with hypersomnia may find it difficult to stay awake during the day, falling asleep in inappropriate situations such as at work, on public transportation, during conversations, or even while driving.
The causes of hypersomnia vary. Primary hypersomnia, such as idiopathic hypersomnia, has no known cause but is believed to be linked to abnormalities in the brain’s sleep-wake mechanisms. Secondary hypersomnia can result from underlying conditions like sleep apnea, depression, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. Certain medications, substance abuse, and poor sleep hygiene can also contribute. Identifying and treating the underlying cause is essential.
Dr. Tahir is a quadruple board certified physician who specializes in Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine. She practices with integrity and puts patient communication at the forefront, building tailored assessments and treatment plans that involve a comprehensive physical, social and psychological evaluation.
For Dr. Tahir, best care involves trust on top of a true holistic approach. She is currently accepting new patients and can often accelerate treatment so you don’t have to wait weeks or months to get the help you need.
Establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Optimize your sleep environment — dark, quiet, and cool. Practice good sleep hygiene by avoiding caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to bedtime, and develop a relaxing pre-sleep routine.
Incorporate short, scheduled naps (20–30 minutes) into your daily routine to manage excessive daytime sleepiness without disrupting nighttime sleep. Engage in regular daytime exercise. Under healthcare guidance, medications such as stimulants or wakefulness-promoting agents can manage hypersomnia symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can address underlying psychological factors and develop coping strategies.
