What is Sleep Apnea with Hypersomnia?

Hypersomnia refers to excess daytime sleepiness and can be a symptom of sleep apnea. When you have sleep apnea, your sleep is constantly being interrupted because breathing becomes obstructed. You may not remember waking up, but your brain rouses just enough to get your airway open again. This prevents you from slipping into the deeper, more restful stages of sleep. Daytime sleepiness, or hypersomnia, is one of the sleep apnea signs that indicate a need for further evaluation. 

When you have hypersomnia, you may feel tired or drowsy throughout the day. You may lack the energy that keeps you from doing everything you want to do. You may even find yourself falling asleep unintentionally at work, behind the wheel or in other inappropriate places. Hypersomnia is not always due to sleep apnea, however. It can also be associated with narcolepsy, sleep deprivation, neurological disease, head injuries and the use of certain medications. An accurate diagnosis will ensure you get the treatment you need. 

If you have sleep apnea with hypersomnia, treatment for the apnea should also alleviate the hypersomnia. CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy and lifestyle changes can all be good choices to help resolve the sleep apnea and hypersomnia. You may also need to address sleep hygiene factors to ensure you are creating the best possible environment for your rest. Call us to find out more or to schedule an appointment with our Los Angeles sleep apnea specialists.