Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)

Check if it's hypersomnia

Excessive sleepiness and sleeping is different from feeling tired all the time.

If you have hypersomnia, you will:

• regularly nap during the day and not feel refreshed
• fall asleep during the day, often while eating or talking
• still sleep for long hours at night

See a GP if:

• you often fall asleep during the day
• sleepiness is affecting your life

Causes of hypersomnia

Any other symptoms you have might give you an idea of what's causing your excessive sleepiness. But don't self-diagnose – always see a GP.

Some medicines, drinking too much alcohol and taking drugs can also cause excessive daytime sleepiness.

Sometimes there is no cause. This is called idiopathic hypersomnia.

Things you can try to help your sleeping habits

Changing your sleep habits won't cure hypersomnia, but it might help you feel better.

Try to:

• go to bed at the same time every night
• avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine

It might also help to talk to your friends and family about your excessive sleepiness so they're aware.