Do you frequently find yourself yawning during the day or struggling to focus while executing work tasks? Perhaps, occasionally feeling “sleepy” is normal. However, if you feel drowsy for prolonged periods of time, this could be a symptom of another medical problem. This blog focuses on your concerns along with possible reasons so that you can seek professional help if needed.
This section will dive deeper into possible explanations.
EDS (excessive daytime sleepiness) can arise due to poor sleep habits, medical concerns as well as day-to-day activities. Some common factors for sleepiness include:
Lack of proper sleep hygiene
- Change of activity disrupts internal clock which can savage sleep schedule as well.
- Using phones or watching TV prior to sleep makes melatonin secretion difficult due to blue light.
- Caffeine/alcohol disrupt deep sleep making these more dangerous if consumed paired in & out of work.
Sleep disorders
- OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) is a disorder wherein one’s breathing ceases temporarily, resulting in severe sleep deprivation.
- Uncontrollable sleep attacks are synonymous with Narcolepsy A neurological disorder that one faces quite suddenly.
- Lack of sleep or staying up leads to feeling fatigued in the day.
- Discomforting sensations in the legs that disturb rest for RLS (restless legs syndrome).
Medical conditions
- Anemia refers to low levels of iron where oxygen does not circulate properly hence feeling exhausted is common.
- Hypothyroidism comes as a result of slow metabolism thus one becomes lethargic due to underactive thyroid.
Diabetes: An individual suffering from diabetes may experience energy crashes because of fluctuations in their blood sugar levels.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): Suffer from debilitating fatigue that can not be healed with rest.
Medications
Some body condition or age related calma prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs lead to drowsiness. Some examples include:
- Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl)
- Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs or tricyclics)
- Blood pressure medications (e.g. Beta blockers)
- Muscle relaxants.
When Should I Become Worried?
Excessive sleepiness can occur from time but worrying symptoms include:
– Sudden loss of muscle strength while laughing or experiencing intense emotion – this is known as heat shock narcolepsy, a peculiar form of sleep disorder.
– Underestimating a task (like signing or eating) and drifting off into slumber.
– Snorting or gasping for breath at night could refer to sleep apocalypse situational breathing problems.
– Lack of mental energy to concentrate on things you usually enjoy.
How Is Excessive Sleepiness Solved?
A doctor may recommend the following:
– For deep sleep analysis, the patient is monitored through polysomnography, a sleep test coupled with brain activity tracking.
– Evaluating blood for signs of: low red blood cells, an overactive or underperforming thyroid gland, or issues with essential nutrients.
Medically and collectively focus on treatment plans that revolve around using anaesthetics like Modalert Australia or Modalert 100 mg to combat tiredness and bring alertness to the body.
Sodium Oxybate (Xyrem): Enhances deep sleep during the night and mitigates daytime sleep episodes.
For Insomnia
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-I): Aids in restructuring sleep patterns.
Prescribed sedatives (example brand name: Zolpidem, Lunesta): Solutions lasting for a short duration.
For Underlying Medical Conditions
Thyroid medication for those suffering from hypothyroidism.
Anti-anemia medicines: Iron.
Fatigue stemming from depression and other mood disorders may respond to: Antidepressants.
Improvements in lifestyle choices aimed at combating drowsiness.
Even without underlying ailments, there are steps one can take to improve sleep hygiene:
“Set a routine for sleep.” Have a consistent bedtime and wake time.
Cut down on alcohol and caffeine: Discontinue these substances 6 hours prior to sleeping.
Regular exercise: Regular but not intense physical activity enhances sleep (do not exercise strenuously prior to sleep).
Alter sleeping conditions: Ensure the bedroom is dark, cool, and quiet.
Manage stress: Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises help foster relaxation.
Final thoughts: Is there cause for concern?
If you find yourself dozing off during the day frequently, then there is reason to look into it – particularly if it jeopardizes your safety or quality of life. While occasional tiredness is normal, persistent sleepiness could signal a treatable condition.
Next steps:
Record sleep patterns in a journal for tracking.
Reach out to a doctor or sleep specialist after assessing symptoms.
Relying on medication should not be the first choice. Practicing good sleeping habits, often referred to as sleep hygiene, should be prioritized.
Resolving the underlying problem helps you regain energy and improves your well-being. Never overlook excessive lethargy—both your health and your productivity are reliant on it!
