If you are experiencing excessive sleepiness throughout the day, you could be suffering from a sleep disorder. Hypersomnia is a real sleep disorder that can have a significant impact on your life. Here is what you need to know about the condition.  

What Are the Symptoms?

Hypersomnia is characterized by more than just feeling sleepy. The sleepiness that is experienced could make it difficult to stay awake throughout the day. Despite your best efforts to stay awake, you could fall asleep at any time. It is not uncommon to fall asleep while working or doing other activities.  

People with hypersomnia can take long naps and still feel tired. The excessive sleepiness can cause cognitive problems and leave you feeling drained. Your home and work life could be impacted by the lack of energy that is felt.  

Why Do You Have Hypersomnia?

There are several possible reasons that you could suffer from hypersomnia. For some people, the sleepiness is a symptom of a more serious condition known as narcolepsy. The condition could also be the result of genetics.  

Other factors that could contribute to the development of the condition include being overweight, prescription drug use, and substance abuse. If you are suffering from a mental disorder, such as depression, you could also have hypersomnia.  

You can receive an evaluation at a sleep disorder clinic to determine the source of your symptoms. In some instances, the cause could be the result of a combination of factors.  

What Can You Do?

The most important step you can take to treat hypersomnia is to see a doctor. Once the source of your condition is determined, the doctor can recommend a treatment course. In addition to the doctor's recommendations, there are some steps you can take at home to help alleviate the symptoms. 

For instance, you can avoid alcohol and any medications that have potentially caused your sleepiness. Your primary care doctor can help find substitutes for any medications you have taken.  

You also need to focus on staying active. Moving around throughout the day can help keep sleepiness at bay. The right amount of activity can help release endorphins, which act as a natural stimulant.  

Work with your doctor to create a sleep schedule. He or she might recommend taking a nap or two during the day.  

It can take some trial and error to find the hypersomnia treatment that works for you. Keep your doctor involved in your progress so that he or she can make adjustments to the recommended treatment, if necessary. You may also want to consider visiting a sleep disorder clinic.