Excessive Daytime Sleepiness

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) is a condition characterized by persistent sleepiness and often a general lack of energy, even after apparently adequate or even prolonged nighttime sleep. EDS can be considered as a broad condition encompassing several sleep disorders where increased sleep is a symptom, or as a symptom of another underlying disorder like narcolepsy, sleep apnea or a circadian rhythm disorder.

Symptoms

The main symptom of EDS is often reported as persistent tiredness, regardless of having had a full night's sleep. Other symptoms may include:

• Difficulty waking from a long sleep
• Inability to concentrate or remember
• Lack of energy or motivation
• Mood changes
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty staying awake throughout the day

Causes

EDS can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Sleep deprivation
• Sleep apnea
• Narcolepsy
• Insomnia
• Circadian rhythm sleep disorders
• Certain medications
• Underlying physical or mental health conditions

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of EDS typically involves a detailed medical history and physical examination. Additional tests may include:

• Polysomnography (sleep study)
• Multiple sleep latency test (MSLT)
• Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS)

Treatment

Treatment for EDS focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may involve:

• Lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep habits and diet
• Medication, such as stimulants, antidepressants, or sodium oxybate
• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for sleep apnea
• Light therapy for circadian rhythm disorders

See also

• Sleep disorders
• Narcolepsy
• Sleep apnea
• Insomnia
• Circadian rhythm sleep disorders

References

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Resources
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